This is an LA Times Studios podcast.

Hi, I'm Angelica Coronado here at LA Times Studios.

Here are today's headlines from the Los Angeles Times.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers made a controversial decision not to require soil testing after the

Eaton and Palisades fires. Tony Briscoe reports that instead of testing for toxins after cleanup,

they believe removing six inches of top soil is enough to clear the hazardous materials. This breaks from years of standard practice

that involve testing to make sure the land is safe and toxins like lead and arsenic aren't left

behind. Now the burden could fall on homeowners and businesses to pay for soil testing and extra

removal if necessary. LA officials were surprised by the decision,

and this is raising concerns about public safety. Last month's devastating wildfires are having a

massive impact on SoCal's economy. L.A. Times reporters write that estimated losses are now

exceeding $250 billion, and the countywide

GDP is expected to drop by $4.6 billion this year.

Over 1,900 small businesses were in the burn zones, and while some have vowed to rebuild,

there are questions as to who their customers will be

with so many residents displaced.

The entertainment industry has taken a hit,

with the homes of many directors, producers,

and crew members damaged or destroyed.

The tourism sector is also suffering

with demand for hotel rooms dropping in Beverly Hills,

Hollywood and downtown LA. On the positive side, construction, real estate, and fireproofing

...