In a decisive move, Governor Gavin Newsom has issued an Executive Order to aid LA firestorm survivors. The latest directive re-suspends permitting requirements under the California Coastal Act to expedite rebuilding processes and expands temporary housing options, allowing longer stays in hotels and short-term rentals. "As the state helps the Los Angeles area rebuild and recover, we will continue to remove barriers and red tape that stand in the way. We will not let over-regulation stop us from helping the LA community rebuild and recover," Newsom said.
Acknowledging the dire circumstances faced by those affected, Newsom's order comes as a reinforcement following the Coastal Commission's guidance that rebuilds would have to adhere to exemption provisions and procedures. By directly instructing the Coastal Commission not to issue guidance nor to enforce conflicting permitting requirements, the governor clarifies confusion for communities eager to rebuild. Survivors can now temporarily remain in hotels or other short-term rentals for extended periods without the usual restrictions until March 8, 2025.
The need for quick recovery measures has been recognized by further streamlining the construction of accessory dwelling units and waiving additional fees for mobile home parks. To assist in recovery from the firestorms, Newsom had already waived significant environmental and building permit requirements through prior executive orders in January.
Alongside efforts to remove bureaucratic obstacles, the state has also provided much-needed financial relief. To assist those impacted by the fires, California delayed individual tax filings for LA County taxpayers to October 15 and extended the sales and use tax filing deadlines. "For homeowners, California has worked with five major lenders, as well as 270 financial institutions, to provide mortgage relief to their customers,” according to a statement obtained by the governor's office.
Newsom's administration is actively involved in debris removal and minimizing mudslide risks, essential to the safety and eventual return of displaced residents. Likewise, the Governor has declared a bold stance against price gouging, urging the public to report any such violations to the Office of the Attorney General.
To further support the community, the state has launched a centralized information hub at CA.gov/LAfires and strengthened in-person Disaster Recovery Centers. This comes in addition to the executive order facilitating the return of displaced students to schools and protecting real estate from predatory speculators.
.jpg){kind=link}