Harabedian Pushes for State Funding for Eaton Fire Soil Testing
Pasadena Now reports Assemblymember John Harabedian is pushing for 2026 state budget funding for comprehensive soil testing in Pasadena and Altadena after the Eaton Fire, arguing survivors need clearer data to make informed decisions about returning home. It highlights major gaps in the current response: although 9,414 structures were destroyed, the EPA committed to testing only 100 properties, LA County’s lead-testing program was limited, and no comprehensive post-cleanup soil testing followed Army Corps debris removal. The piece also notes that preliminary County testing found 70% to 80% of samples in downwind areas exceeded lead screening levels. Harabedian’s request is separate from AB 1642, which would create post-wildfire contamination testing standards, and the budget request still had no announced dollar amount as negotiations continue ahead of the June 15 deadline.