California is enacting new rules to help wildfire victims recover from the devastating effects.

A new package of legislation, signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom in Altadena alongside wildfire survivors, directly responds to the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles in early 2025.

One of the new changes creates a first in the nation for testing for smoke contamination for future wildfires. It would require insurers to cover all smoke damage testing, remediation, and restoration.

“For homeowners who have already lost so much in a fire, the last thing a family should have to do is fight for a clear answer about whether it is safe to return home. AB 1795 puts the health and well-being of fire survivors first by requiring insurance companies to follow the science and provide Californians with the answers they deserve,” Asm. Mike Gipson, who authored the legislation, said in a statement.

The new law was sponsored by Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara and supported by the United Policyholders.

Additional legislation also establishes the state’s first protections for testing, remediation, and restoration of lead and asbestos contamination from wildfire smoke in homes within a fire zone.

“AB 1642 will set a new national precedent on scientific standards for clearing a home for occupancy after a wildfire. Science, not an insurance company’s opinions, will determine whether a home is safe.” said Asm. John Harabidian, the bill’s author, in a statement.

Another of Harabidian’s bills makes permanent the mortgage forbearance protection secured for the Los Angeles wildfire victims. According to the governor’s office, the new law doubles the available mortgage forbearance for LA wildfire victims from 12 months to 24 months.

“California will not leave survivors to navigate recovery alone. In the wake of the 2025 firestorms, we are continuing to listen, act, and stand alongside the families and communities rebuilding after the Eaton and Palisades fires. These new protections will make insurer obligations clearer and give homeowners more financial flexibility when they need it most. As fire seasons across the West become a year-round reality, California’s commitment to recovery must be just as enduring.

Thank you to the survivors and advocates who demanded action. California will always have your back,” said Gov. Gavin Newsom in a statement.