On October 25, 2019, Governor Newsom and the State Legislature approved a one-time General Fund appropriation in the 2019 Budget Act to support state and local government efforts to protect public safety, vulnerable populations and individuals and improve resiliency in response to utility-led Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) actions. The funding will focus on jurisdictions where there is heightened PSPS vulnerability. Half of the funds will be allocated to local governments – at least $150,000 will be awarded to all 58 counties with additional funding based on county size and experience with PSPS. Contra Costa County has been awarded $648,181.  
The funding can be used to secure equipment, such as generators and/or generator connections, fuel storage or other backup energy sources for essential facilities, such as fire stations, community centers, health facilities and other facilities that are critical to communities’ function during energy interruptions, backup emergency communications equipment, and developing and conducting plans that better prepare communities for PSPS events, including risk assessment for critical infrastructure and equipping resource centers for the public to access. The grants will be administered by the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services. Reports on expenditure of funds will be required. Approval will enable the Office of the Sheriff to participate in the grant program.