Secretary Padilla Applauds Congress’ $10.2 Million Allocation Toward Earthquake Early-Warning System

SACRAMENTO - California Secretary of State Alex Padilla applauded the announcement of a congressional budget deal that includes an additional $10.2 million allocation toward California’s earthquake early-warning system. As a state senator, Secretary Padilla authored Senate Bill 135, signed by Governor Jerry Brown, which required the state to establish the early-warning system. Funding constraints have prevented the system from full implementation.   

Secretary Padilla released the following statement lauding the congressional allocation: 

“In 2013, I proudly authored a law requiring California to build an earthquake early-warning system. A statewide earthquake early-warning system would provide Californians critical seconds to take cover, assist loved ones or pull their vehicles to the side of the road. It would also provide time to bring trains safely to a stop, power down critical infrastructure and even pause surgery. The science is sound, and the technology is proven. Japan, Mexico and China all have systems that work. 

Advanced warning can be the difference between life and death. Seconds matter when a major earthquake is about to strike.  We have the technology to establish a California Earthquake early-warning system, but we lack full funding. Last year, Governor Brown approved $10 million to help build out California’s system, an additional allocation of $10.2 million from the federal government provides a significant boost to further develop the system. 

I applaud Congress for committing the additional $10.2 million in funding. This investment is an important step forward in establishing a comprehensive early warning network designed to save countless lives in the event of a massive earthquake. Though more funding is needed, this is a welcome investment that will help protect Californians.” 

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