
Visit www.ca.gov/lafires for information and resources for Californians impacted by the Los Angeles Fires.
Resources from the California Department of Consumer Affairs
Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education
The Bureau protects students and consumers in California and beyond, through the oversight of
California's private postsecondary educational institutions, by conducting qualitative reviews of
educational programs and operating standards, proactively combating unlicensed activity, impartially
resolving student and consumer complaints, and providing support and financial relief to harmed
students.
Questions from institutions impacted by the LA Fires may be directed to licensing@dca.ca.gov or (888) 370-7589 (press 4 when
prompted).
Students impacted by the LA Fires may contact the Bureau’s Office of Student Assistance and Relief
at osar@dca.ca.gov or (888) 370-7589 (press 5 when prompted).
Web: www.bppe.ca.gov and www.osar.bppe.ca.gov.
Contractors State License Board (CSLB)
As a consumer protection agency and in its role regulating California's construction industry, the Contractors State License Board is responsible for protecting those whose homes and property are directly affected by wildfires, as well as other catastrophic events like floods, mudflows, earthquakes, and pipeline explosions.
CSLB's post–disaster mission is to help ensure that survivors are not victimized by unlicensed or unscrupulous contractors who may try to take advantage of them during the recovery and rebuilding process. It is a felony to contract without a license in a declared disaster area. Consumers can protect themselves by using CSLB's resources to check a contractor's license status and history.
After a disaster, CSLB staffs various assistance centers that are opened for survivors and operated by the Governor's Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) and/or the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), where staff provide resources for survivors looking to rebuild or repair their homes.
Web: www.cslb.ca.gov/ |
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California Board of Pharmacy
Consumers: During a state of emergency, consumers are protected through state laws that the California Board of Pharmacy (Board) enforces to ensure public safety. This includes requirements pharmacies must adhere to so consumers can have quick access to prescription medication and continued health care. If possible, consumers are encouraged to pack all medications and medical cards before evacuating. Using your phone to snap photos of your medication can be helpful to keep track of prescriptions. Consumers can find an open pharmacy in areas impacted by disaster at HealthcareReady.org.
The Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP) helps people in a federally–identified disaster area who do not have health insurance get the prescription drugs, vaccinations, medical supplies, and equipment that they need. To determine eligibility for EPAP, call (855) 793–7470.
Pharmacists: During a declared state of emergency, the Board reminds pharmacies of information and state laws intended to help pharmacists provide prescription drugs— including controlled substances— for residents displaced because of emergency evacuation.
- Providing Prescription Drugs during Declared Statewide Emergency
- Providing Medications for Medi–Cal Recipients Impacted by State of Emergency
- Pharmacists may contact the Board's Ask an Inspector program at (916) 518–3100, M–Th 9am–1pm, or by email at ask.inspector@dca.ca.gov.
Web: www.pharmacy.ca.gov/
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California Architects Board
The Board's Disaster Preparedness page advises consumers to be aware that illegal operations often try to take advantage of a disaster situation. The Board has two publications to assist consumers: The Homeowner's Rebuilding Bulletin and the Consumer's Guide to Hiring an Architect. These publications can help consumers understand how to hire an architect, their rights in obtaining copies of plans, the steps to take in negotiating a contract, and general suggestions to assist in the planning and rebuilding process.
Web: www.cab.ca.gov
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Bureau of Household Goods and Services
The Bureau of Household Goods and Services (BHGS), under the Department of Consumer Affairs, protects California consumers through enforcement and licensing of professions in household moving, electronic and appliance repair, service contracts, upholstered furniture and bedding, and thermal insulation.
Resources from BHGS:
- BHGS: Essential Consumer Tips | Español
- Helpful Tips When Moving: Within California | Español
- Helpful Tips When Moving: Into and Out of California | Español
- Frequently Asked Questions: Home Restoration Companies | Español
- Helpful Tips Before You Sign a Service Contract | Español
Web: https://bhgs.dca.ca.gov/
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California Department of Consumer Affairs
Email: cafires@dca.ca.gov
Phone Number: (800) 952–5210
Web: www.dca.ca.gov
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California Board of Accountancy
The California Board of Accountancy's (CBA) Los Angeles Wildfire Assistance webpage provides resources and assistance to licensees affected by the wildfires. The assistance includes CPA-specific information about the renewal fee postponements, who licensees should contact for requesting CE extensions or to replace a wall certificate/pocket ID, and who applicants should contact for extensions regarding the CPA Exam, among other helpful topics. Links about filing extensions for federal and state taxes are also provided.
Web: www.cba.ca.gov
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California Acupuncture Board
The California Acupuncture Board (Board) regulates the practice of Acupuncture and Asian medicine and is the sole issuer of acupuncture licenses (L.Ac) in the state. The Board's mission is to protect the people of California by upholding acupuncture practices standards through the oversight and enforcement of the Acupuncture Licensure Act.
Arbitration Certification Program
The Arbitration Certification Program (ACP) certifies and monitors third-party arbitration programs of participating automobile manufacturers to ensure compliance with California laws and regulations related to new vehicle lemon law warranty disputes and manufacturer sponsored arbitration programs.
Please contact the certified arbitration program directly if:
- You are scheduled for an arbitration hearing and are unable to attend.
- You are participating in arbitration and the subject vehicle has sustained fire damage.
Certified program contact information:
- Better Business Bureau Auto Line (BBB Auto Line) (800) 955–5100
- California Dispute Settlement Program (800) 777-8119
- Consumer Arbitration Program – Motor Vehicles (800) 279–5343
File a complaint regarding a violation by a state-certified arbitration program or manufacturer.
Web: www.dca.ca.gov/acp
Phone: (916) 574–7350
Email: acp@dca.ca.gov
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California State Athletic Commission
The California State Athletic Commission (CSAC) regulates professional and amateur boxing, kickboxing and mixed martial arts throughout the State by licensing all participants and supervising the events.
Web: www.dca.ca.gov/csac
Bureau of Automotive Repair
The Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) protects Californians through effective oversight of the automotive repair industry and administration of vehicle emissions reduction and safety programs.
After a disaster, consumers may need vehicle repairs due to fire, flooding, or other damage. BAR offers resources to help consumers make informed decisions when having their vehicle repaired. Consumers should also know their rights when getting vehicle repairs, including:
- Receiving an estimate that must be authorized before repairs begin
- Being notified and authorizing any additional repairs before they are made
- Getting a final invoice that clearly lists all repairs performed and parts installed
Consumer resources:
- Find an auto shop
- Check a license
- File a complaint
- Get help to repair or retire your vehicle
- Request a collision repair inspection
Web: www.bar.ca.gov
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Board of Barbering and Cosmetology
The Board of Barbering and Cosmetology (BBC) regulates and licenses individuals and establishments in six licensing categories (barbers, cosmetologists, electrologists, estheticians, hairstylists, and manicurists). In addition, the Board oversees apprentices and establishments where Board regulated services are provided. The Board's mission is to ensure the health and safety of California consumers by promoting ethical standards and by enforcing the laws of the barbering and beauty industry.
The Board is committed to help those who are affected. Please contact the Board if you need any further assistance.
Email: barbercosmo@dca.ca.gov
Phone: 1-800-952-5210
Web: barbercosmo.ca.gov
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Board of Behavioral Sciences
The Board of Behavioral Sciences, under the Department of Consumer Affairs, is responsible for licensing, examination, and enforcement of: Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFT), Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW), Licensed Educational Psychologists (LEP), Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCC), Associate Marriage and Family Therapists (AMFT), Associate Social Workers (ASW) and Associate Professional Clinical Counselors (APCC).
Web: www.bbs.ca.gov
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Cemetery and Funeral Bureau
The Cemetery and Funeral Bureau (CFB) safeguards consumers by licensing and regulating the death care industry through policies and practices that protect the health, safety, and general welfare of Californians.
Resources:
Consumer Guide to Funeral and
Cemetery
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Web: www.cfb.ca.gov
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Board of Chiropractic Examiners
BCE protects the health, welfare, and safety of the public through licensure, education, engagement, and enforcement in chiropractic care.
Resources:
Web: www.chiro.ca.gov
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Court Reporters Board
The mission of the Court Reporters Board is to protect the public health, safety and welfare by ensuring the integrity of judicial records through oversight of the court reporting profession. The CRB carries out this mission by testing, licensing and disciplining court reporters and by recognizing the schools of court reporting that meet state curriculum standards.
Dental Board of California
The Dental Board of California licenses and regulates dentists and dental assistants. The Board's mission is to protect and promote the health and safety of consumers of the State of California.
Web: www.dbc.ca.gov
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Dental Hygiene Board of California
The responsibilities of the Dental Hygiene Board of California include issuing dental hygiene licenses, enforcing the Dental Hygiene Practice Act, and developing the Law and Ethics examinations. Additional functions include promulgating regulations, establishing and maintaining fees, oversight and approval of dental hygiene educational programs, and continuing education requirements for all dental hygiene licensure categories.
Web: www.dhbc.ca.gov
California Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists
As a consumer protection agency first and foremost, the Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists (BPELSG) is responsible for protecting those who require the services of an engineer, land surveyor, geologist, or geophysicist and those who are impacted by natural and manmade disasters within California.
The Board's Consumer Information page provides guidance to consumers towards increasing awareness for how consumers can avoid illegal unlicensed practitioners who often try to take advantage of individuals in a disaster situation. The Board has multiple publications intended to assist consumers: the Consumer's Guide to Engineering and Surveying and the Consumer Guide to Geological and Geophysical Services to name two. These publications can help consumers understand how to hire an engineer, land surveyor, geologist, or geophysicist, the steps to take in negotiating a contract, and general suggestions to assist in the planning and rebuilding process.
Web: www.bpelsg.ca.gov/consumers
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Landscape Architects Technical Committee
The Landscape Architects Technical Committee protects the health, safety, and welfare of the public by establishing standards for licensure and enforcing the laws and regulations that govern the practice of landscape architecture in California.
Web: www.latc.ca.gov
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Medical Board of California
The mission of the Medical Board of California (Board) is to protect healthcare consumers and prevent harm through the proper licensing and regulation of physicians and surgeons and certain allied healthcare professionals and through the vigorous, objective enforcement of the Medical Practice Act, and to promote access to quality medical care through the Board's licensing, policy, and regulatory functions.
The Board encourages its licensees to consider volunteering with the recovery efforts of those impacted by the southern California wildfires. To get started, visit California Volunteers, which has a list of resources and organizations accepting volunteers. You may also visit the LA Fires website for additional helpful information in English and Spanish for those impacted by this disaster.
In addition, the Board requests that those with a Physician's and Surgeon's License join the Volunteer Physician Registry (VPR). The VPR is designed to help clinics and other organizations find physicians willing to volunteer their time and experience.
Web: www.mbc.ca.gov
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California Board of Naturopathic Medicine
Consumers: During a disaster evacuation, the California Board of Naturopathic Medicine (Board) emphasizes the importance of maintaining both physical and mental well-being while minimizing exposure to environmental hazards. Stay connected with your loved ones and your naturopathic doctor and or other healthcare providers for essential emotional and medical support. Ensure you have an adequate supply of necessary medications and medical supplies. Consumers in disaster-affected areas can locate an open pharmacy at HealthcareReady.org.
The Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP) helps people in a federally–identified disaster area who do not have health insurance get the prescription drugs, vaccinations, medical supplies, and equipment that they need. To determine eligibility for EPAP, call (855) 793–7470.
Naturopathic Doctors: During a declared state of emergency, the Board wants you to be aware of important information and state laws that help ensure access for your patients to their prescription medications, including controlled substances, for residents displaced by an emergency evacuation. Please see the links below for additional resources:
- Renew a license or change a practice and/or mailing address.
- Find a naturopathic doctor in your area.
Web: www.naturopathic.ca.gov
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Board of Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy practitioners help California consumers reduce disaster risks and respond to emergencies in a number of ways. The following resources can help OTs and OTAs learn more about disaster response and risk reduction, and get involved in federal, state, and community efforts. When wildfires, power shutoffs, or other disasters affect you and your family or your practice, finding help can be a stressful and confusing experience.
Visit the Board's Disaster Preparedness Resources webpage.
Web: www.bot.ca.gov
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California State Board of Optometry
Consumers: The California Board of Optometry (CSBO) encourages consumers to prepare for disasters and protect their eyes and vision by making an emergency vision care kit. What to pack:
- Pair of prescription glasses in a hard case.
- Extra contact lenses or supply of daily disposables.
- Small bottles of sterile contact lens solution.
- Water disinfecting tablets.
- Soap and hand sanitizer.
- Antibacterial wipes.
- A copy of your vision and any other prescriptions.
During a disaster, CSBO reminds consumers that health plans must ensure that enrollees continue to have appropriate access to medically necessary services, including allowing members to replace medical equipment and supplies, such as prescription glasses or contacts.
The Department of Health Care Services has published information for Medi-Cal members: Emergency and Disaster Assistance Questions and Answers
The Department of Managed Health Care has published information regarding health plans: DMHC Natural Disaster Flyer
Optometrists and Opticians: If you need assistance with your license, please contact the Board at OptometryLicensing@DCA.CA.GOV
Web: www.optometry.ca.gov
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Osteopathic Medical Board of California
Consumers: The Osteopathic Medical Board of California (Board), under the Department of Consumer Affairs, protects California consumers by requiring competency, accountability, and integrity in the safe practice of medicine by osteopathic physicians and surgeons. During a disaster evacuation, the Board stresses the importance of staying in touch with your physician and surgeon and continue with any current treatment plans and medications prescribed. In addition, take steps to ensure that medications are not exposed to water or extreme temperatures.
Physicians and Surgeons: During a declared state of emergency, the Board reminds physicians and surgeons that they may sign up for the volunteer physician registry.
Web: www.ombc.ca.gov | Email: Osteopathic@dca.ca.gov
Physical Therapy Board of California
The Physical Therapy Board protects the people of California by the effective administration of the Physical Therapy Practice Act.
Web: www.ptbc.ca.gov
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Physician Assistant Board
The Physician Assistant Board extends our heartfelt support to all those affected by the recent fires in Los Angeles. We understand that this is a challenging time, and we want to ensure that you have access to the medical care and resources you need. If you require medical assistance, licensed physician assistants (PAs) are available to provide care. You can verify a PA's license and find more information on healthcare resources by visiting our website.
For additional disaster relief services, including guidance on rebuilding, consumer protection, and mental health support, please visit the DCA Disaster Help Center.
If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact us at (916) 561-8780 or paboard@dca.ca.gov.
Web: www.pab.ca.gov
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Podiatric Medical Board of California
The Podiatric Medical Board of California (PMBC) licenses and regulates Doctors of Podiatric Medicine (DPMs). DPMs are practitioners of medicine diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the lower extremity and are authorized to perform as assistant surgeons in any surgical procedure.
DPMs play a role in ensuring the health and safety of impacted individuals, especially those with foot injuries, chronic conditions, and mobility issues. The Board supports DPMs by ensuring they have the resources needed to deliver effective care during disasters like the recent fires in Los Angeles.
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Web: www.pmbc.ca.gov
Professional Fiduciaries Bureau
The mission of the Professional Fiduciaries Bureau is to protect consumers through licensing, consumer education, and enforcement of the Professional Fiduciaries Act and promoting and upholding competency and ethical standards across the profession. Professional fiduciaries provide critical services to seniors, persons with disabilities and children. They manage matters for clients including daily care, housing and medical needs, and also offer financial management services ranging from basic bill paying to estate and investment management.
Web: www.fiduciary.ca.gov
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California Board of Psychology
The Board of Psychology (Board) protects consumers of psychological services by licensing psychologists and associated professionals, regulating the practice of psychology, and supporting the ethical evolution of the profession.
During a declared state of emergency, the Board reminds licensees to review information released by the Board or the Department of Consumer Affairs, and to contact the Board regarding executive orders or state laws intended to assist licensees.
Resources:
- Renewal Fee Postponement for Los Angles Wildfire Information
- Renewal Information
- License/Registration Verification
- File a Complaint
Web: www.psychology.ca.gov
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Bureau of Real Estate Appraisers
The California Bureau of Real Estate Appraisers (BREA) is committed to assisting property owners impacted by disasters such as the Los Angeles Wildfire. BREA provides guidance on appraisal services and connects communities with licensed and competent real estate appraisers.
BREA's Disaster Support May Include:
- License Renewal Fee Deferrals – Renewal fee extensions are available for appraisers affected by disasters, as authorized by executive orders.
- Expedited Licensing Assistance – Support for appraisers seeking to renew or reinstate their licenses quickly.
- Consumer Protection and Guidance – resources on best practices, specific appraisal types, contents of an appraisal report, considerations in selecting appraisal services
- Complaint investigation – BREA thoroughly reviews and investigates complaints regarding appraisal misconduct through our Complaint Portal.
Finding a Competent Real Estate Appraiser
To ensure fair and professional appraisal, consider the following:
- Verify Licensing – use BREA's Search Appraisers tool to check an appraiser's credential. Appraisal services performed by non-licensed individuals fall outside the jurisdiction of the Bureau of Real Estate Appraisers (BREA).
- Look for Local Experience – Choose an appraiser with the necessary education and experience in post-disaster market conditions and valuation methods.
- Understand the Appraisal Process – Ask about valuation methodologies and ensure the appraiser follows industry standards. Learn more here.
Web: www.brea.ca.gov
BREA's Help Center: Call (916) 552-9000 or email info@brea.ca.gov
California Board of Registered Nursing
The California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) is a state governmental agency responsible for protecting the public by regulating the practice of registered nurses, advanced practice registered nurses, nursing academic programs and nursing continuing education providers. The BRN is responsible for implementation and enforcement of the Nursing Practice Act: the laws related to nursing education, licensure, practice, and discipline.
Phone Number: (916) 322-3350
Web: www.rn.ca.gov
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Respiratory Care Board
The Respiratory Care Board licenses respiratory care practitioners and is mandated to protect and serve consumers by administering and enforcing the Respiratory Care Practice Act in the interest of the safe practice of respiratory care. In support of its mandate, the Board continually strives to increase consumer protection in the most efficient manner through its licensing and enforcement programs.
Web: www.rcb.ca.gov
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Bureau of Security and Investigative Services
The Bureau of Security and Investigative Services licenses and regulates the Alarm, Locksmith, Private Investigator, Private Security Services, and Repossession Industries. The mission of the Bureau is to protect and serve the public and consumers through effective regulatory oversight of the professions within the Bureau's jurisdiction.
Web: www.bsis.ca.gov
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Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and Hearing Aid Dispensers Board
The Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and Hearing Aid Dispensers Board regulates the practices of speech-language pathology, audiology, and hearing aid dispensing in California by licensing those who meet minimum standards of competency. Among its functions, the Board promulgates regulations; issues and renews licenses, and imposes disciplinary sanctions, when necessary.
Structural Pest Control Board
The Structural Pest Control Board protects the welfare of Californians by regulating the structural pest control profession. Licensees must meet minimum qualifications and demonstrate competency to provide safe and effective services to the public.
Web: www.pestboard.ca.gov
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Veterinary Medical Board
The mission of the Veterinary Medical Board (VMB) is to protect all consumers and animals by regulating licensees, promoting professional standards, and enforcing the California Veterinary Medicine Practice Act.
Web: www.vmb.ca.gov
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Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians
The California Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians (Board) protects the consumer from unprofessional and unsafe licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) and psychiatric technicians (PTs). Public protection is the highest priority of the Board in exercising its licensing, regulatory and disciplinary functions.
Web: www.bvnpt.ca.gov
State Agency Resources
California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES)
Cal OES is responsible for overseeing and coordinating emergency preparedness, response, recovery, and homeland security activities within the state of California. Cal OES regularly dispatches team members to join first responders, emergency leaders, and those affected by disasters that threaten public safety, to tell their stories and provide information essential to the public.
Web: www.caloes.ca.gov
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Listos California
Every Californian, regardless of age, ability, income, or language, deserves culturally competent education to prepare for wildfire, flood, earthquake, drought, heatwave and other disasters. Listos California engages a statewide network of community–based organizations, Tribal Governments, and Community Emergency Response Teams across the state to boost resiliency, provide accessible in–language information and advance a new culture of disaster preparedness.
Web: https://listoscalifornia.org
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California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE)
CAL FIRE is dedicated to the fire protection and stewardship of over 31 million acres of California's privately–owned wildlands. In addition, the CAL FIRE provides varied emergency services in 36 of the State's 58 counties via contracts with local governments. CAL FIRE provides regular updates about fire incidents and detailed maps of fire areas.
Web: www.fire.ca.gov/
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California Department of Insurance
In an effort to assist victims of these devastating fires, DOI works closely with other federal, state and local agencies to assist in recovery issues related to insurance. Californians should work with their agent, insurer claims adjuster, and insurer with a goal of achieving a settlement that they believe is fair and consistent with their coverage. For questions about insurance or a dispute with an insurer, please contact DOI at 1–800–927–4357.
Web: www.insurance.ca.gov/01-consumers/140-catastrophes/WildfireResources.cfm
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