RELEASE: REPS. KHANNA AND WHITESIDES ANNOUNCE WILDFIRE ARSON AND THEFT PREVENTION ACT IN THE WAKE OF THE LA WILDFIRES

Washington, DC — Representatives Ro Khanna (CA-17) and George Whitesides (CA-27) today announced the Wildfire Arson and Theft Prevention Act in the wake of reports of arson and looting during the ongoing deadly wildfires in Los Angeles. The legislation will make it a federal crime to cause a wildfire, further the spread of a wildfire, or attempt to do either. It will also make it a federal crime to commit theft in an area where a major disaster declaration has been made for a wildfire.  

“We’ve heard harrowing stories of families staying in their homes and risking their lives during the ongoing wildfires in LA to prevent their properties from being broken into and having their possessions stolen. There have also been reports that arsonists are using this tragedy as an excuse to set smaller fires. We need stiff penalties to prevent these crimes from continuing and to keep Americans safe. I thank Rep. Whitesides for his leadership,” said Rep. Ro Khanna. 

“As California rebuilds from these devastating wildfires, it is unconscionable that anyone would take advantage of vulnerable families and businesses for their own personal gain. Furthermore, anyone who sets intentional wildfires during this time of crisis needs to face severe and decisive punishment. I’m grateful to Rep. Khanna for cosponsoring this critical legislation that will help make our communities safer,” said Rep. George Whitesides.

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