Amid Wildfire Risk, California Governor Declares State of Emergency

Governing: California's efforts to prevent another year of catastrophic wildfire took a step forward Friday when Gov. Gavin Newsom declared a rare statewide emergency, clearing the path for dozens of forest-thinning projects aimed at reducing fire danger.

The declaration suspends permitting and regulatory requirements that might otherwise stand in the way of fuel-reduction work in 35 high-hazard areas.

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