Rebuilding is underway in areas hit by last year’s devastating wildfires in Los Angeles. But skyrocketing construction costs are slowing the recovery.

Tariffs on imported materials like lumber, steel, and solar components are pushing prices up 20 to 40 percent, forcing some homeowners to delay or even abandon rebuilding plans. 

Critics warn federal trade and immigration policies are hindering disaster victims and could prolong the recovery for years.

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