Dear neighbor,

I want to start by expressing my deepest condolences to the families and friends of those killed in the plane and helicopter crash outside of Washington, D.C. on Wednesday night. This is a truly tragic incident, and my expectation is that the NTSB, FAA, and other agencies will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of the crash to ensure it never happens again. I’m grateful for the first responders who worked tirelessly through the night to help with search and recovery efforts. My office will continue to monitor this heartbreaking situation.

Earlier this week, I heard from many constituents concerned about the Trump Administration’s efforts to freeze federal grants, loans, and other financial assistance. I share those concerns about firefighters, elementary schools, and countless others who make our communities safer and healthier potentially losing vital funding.

The American public made it clear that jeopardizing federal support for so many crucial programs was unacceptable. In the face of public outrage, the Trump Administration ultimately rescinded the order, but extreme Republicans remain committed to eliminating funding for important initiatives. Make no mistake: I will fight against any effort to take away money from critical services that Americans depend on.

This mixed messaging from the Trump Administration has created a significant amount of uncertainty for federal funding and grant recipients. As more information and resources become available, we will make every effort to share them with you. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to my office at lieu.house.gov/contact or (323) 651-1040.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: Last weekend, I went on MSNBC with Alex Witt to talk about our community’s need for disaster assistance, without conditions. I’m working around the clock to make sure Californians have the resources they need. Watch our full conversation:

HAPPY LUNAR NEW YEAR: I want to wish a happy Lunar New Year to all those who celebrate. May your year be full of health, prosperity, and happiness! (Check out this video to hear about my favorite Lunar New Year tradition.)

NOTE: I understand there’s still uncertainty about federal resources because of the Trump Administration’s efforts to halt funding for many vital programs. However, I encourage you to still seek the assistance you need. We're in this together, and I’m fighting to make sure these resources remain available to you.

LA COUNTY RELIEF – FUNDING AND RESOURCES PORTAL: LA County has a one-stop portal to connect the public with organizations that provide crucial relief and support. Whether it’s housing assistance or relief for small businesses, please visit LA County Relief: Funding & Resource Portal.

DISASTER RECOVERY CENTER (DRC): DRCs have been set up to help affected individuals apply for aid with recovery specialists who can answer questions and provide assistance. Please visit this FEMA web page for a full list DRCs. A Menu of Services provided at DRC locations can be found here.

FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY (FEMA): Renters, homeowners, and business owners who sustained losses in the designated Los Angeles County areas may be qualified for disaster-related assistance. If you have insurance, please make sure to file a claim with your insurance company first.

In addition to other FEMA grants you may be eligible for, there is Clean and Sanitize Assistance available (up to $300) if your home was damaged by the wildfires, but you can still live in it safely.

To apply for FEMA aid, visit www.disasterassistance.gov, call (800) 621-FEMA (3362), or use the FEMA app on mobile devices.

INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE (IRS): LA County taxpayers, businesses, and households will now have a deadline extension for certain tax filings. The IRS will automatically provide filing and penalty relief. For more information on tax treatment of disaster-related losses and qualified disaster relief payments, please visit this IRS Publication 547 web page and 525 web page, respectively. Please call the IRS Disaster Hotline for additional questions at (866) 562-5227.

SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION (SBA): The SBA is offering low-interest disaster-assistance loans for renters, homeowners, businesses, and nonprofit organizations located in LA County. Candidates for this funding should also consider applying for FEMA grants. To apply online, please visit this SBA web page and use the Electronic Loan Application. The Disaster Loan Outreach Centers (DLOC) in Los Angeles and Ventura Counties also offer in-person applications and assistance.

DISASTER UNEMPLOYMENT ASSISTANCE (DUA): DUA is available for LA County residents who lost work because of the wildfires and do not qualify for regular, state unemployment insurance benefits. To apply, please visit https://edd.ca.gov/en/myedd/.

REPLACING IDENTIFICATION DOCUMENTS: If you are replacing your passport due to the fires, replacement fees may be waived until July 7, 2026. Please go to www.travel.state.gov for more information. To replace your Social Security Identification card, please click here.

As a reminder, my office has compiled a comprehensive guide to help you navigate seeking assistance on our website. You can always call my Los Angeles office at (323) 651-1040 to see if we can help.  I look forward to updating you again soon.

Warmly,

Ted