Saturday, November 8, 2025

Pasadena Congresswoman Calls for Urgent Action After Toxic Contamination Found in Eaton Fire-Affected Homes

U.S. Rep. Judy Chu on Thursday called for sweeping state and county-level interventions after new findings revealed widespread lead and asbestos contamination in homes affected by the Eaton Fire, despite prior remediation efforts.

The report, released Nov. 6, 2025, by Eaton Fire Residents United (EFRU), a local, grassroots group advocating for survivors of the Eaton Fire, found that more than half of standing homes within the region where ash settled following the fire still contain hazardous levels of lead. One-third of those homes also showed significant asbestos contamination, raising concerns about long-term health risks including cancer and brain damage.

Chu said the findings were “deeply alarming,” noting that many homes tested have contamination levels high enough for the Environmental Protection Agency to require further remediation efforts. “It is unacceptable that, as many survivors of the Eaton Fire see their compensation for temporary housing deplete, many of our neighbors are being forced to decide between a roof over their heads or risking exposure to deadly toxins,” she said.

In response, Chu urged Gov. Gavin Newsom, California Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara, and the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors to adopt a “Clearance Before Occupancy” standard, requiring homes to be certified toxin-free before residents return. She also called on Lara to compel insurance companies to cover testing and conduct multiple remediations until homes are cleared. Additionally, she advocated for an immediate extension of Additional Living Expense (ALE) coverage to support displaced residents.

Chu further urged Newsom to declare an “Ash Zone” to formally recognize homes outside the direct burn area that were nonetheless impacted by ash and smoke. She said the designation would protect public health and make it easier for affected households to demonstrate the impact they’ve experienced and receive the compensation and assistance needed.

EFRU’s report adds urgency to ongoing debates over post-fire recovery standards and insurance accountability, as many Eaton Fire survivors face dwindling housing support and uncertain timelines for safe reentry, according to Chu.