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SoCal Matters
Will Full-Time Firefighters Solve California's Wildfire Crisis?
Season 2025
Episode 299
California lawmakers are considering making seasonal firefighters full-time to ensure year-round readiness as wildfires become a year-round threat. The plan would keep all 356 Cal Fire engines operational, closing the staffing gap when 3,000 seasonal firefighters are laid off for three months. Estimated to cost $175 million annually, the plan could improve wildfire readiness.
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