In a move to support tenants and victims of the recent Los Angeles-area firestorms, Governor Gavin Newsom has issued an executive order protecting renters from eviction if they host displaced survivors. In a statement made by the Governor's Office, Newsom underscored the necessity of solidarity and shelter amidst the crisis, stating, "At a time when so many have been suddenly displaced, we need more housing and shelter than ever. Opening your place of residence to help shelter those in need is not only encouraged and generous, but deserves to be protected."
The executive order ensures that landlords in Los Angeles County cannot use the unlawful detainer process to remove tenants for the sole reason of violating lease terms that restrict housing additional people, provided they are survivors of the fires. These protections are set to continue until March 8. While the legislature toils to enshrine these rights permanently, the governor's order serves as a stopgap to provide immediate sanctuary and certainty for both tenants and the survivors they are assisting.
Alongside this order, Governor Newsom's response to the firestorms has been multi-faceted, offering aid to those affected in various ways. From tax relief to postponing tax deadlines and extending sales tax filing dates to accommodate Los Angeles County taxpayers, to streamlining the rebuilding of homes and businesses, Newsom's actions are geared towards a faster recovery, as per the Governor's Office. One notable measure includes an executive order that accelerates the construction of accessory dwelling units and facilitates the establishment of temporary housing solutions.
Ensuring the safety and economic stability of the fire-affected population has also been a priority, with measures to prevent price gouging and to protect survivors from real estate speculation. To this cause, Newsom has proposed at least $2.5 billion in additional funding for emergency response and recovery. Additional efforts include expediting students' return to school and securing properties for safe cleanup and rebuilding. For those in need of assistance, resources can be accessed through CA.gov/LAfires, or by applying for disaster assistance online at DisasterAssistance.gov, over the phone, or through the FEMA smartphone application, the Governor's Office noted.
