Elected officials from California’s Democratic Party Caucus recently convened in Pasadena to discuss a series of legislative proposals aimed at aiding families and businesses affected by the recent destructive wildfires. In a bid to provide relief, they are considering measures such as extending motel stays, deferring mortgage payments, waiving permit requirements, and offering direct financial assistance.
Assemblyman Rick Chavez Zbur emphasized the urgent need for action, highlighting the severity of the wildfires. He, along with Speaker Robert Rivas, is advocating for a bill that would waive coastal development permit requirements for accessory dwelling units in Los Angeles County. Zbur stressed that beyond rebuilding physical structures, the goal is to help restore stability and hope to those impacted.
According to Cal Fire, over 12,000 structures have been destroyed or damaged. Rivas assured swift legislative action to address these pressing needs. He outlined plans to remove any legal obstacles hindering relief efforts and emphasized the importance of accountability in resource allocation to ensure effective state response.
Rivas extended an invitation to President-elect Donald Trump to visit the affected areas, suggesting that a collaborative effort could significantly aid thousands of Californians. He urged for a united approach to rebuild the communities impacted by the fires.
Assemblywoman Tina McKinnor introduced legislation aimed at easing housing restrictions by allowing tenants to accommodate family members without breaching lease agreements. She also proposed a bill to prevent low-ball property offers in fire-damaged areas and to extend the period during which sellers can retract sales.
Assemblywoman Jacqui Irwin, whose district includes the severely impacted areas of Pacific Palisades and Malibu, described the devastation as a scene from a war zone. Coauthoring legislation with Assemblyman John Harabedian, she aims to facilitate relief and recovery in these communities. Harabedian remarked on the catastrophic impact of the fires on Altadena and Pacific Palisades, expressing hope for rebuilding efforts.
The Mortgage Deferment Act, presented as Assembly Bill 238, would allow affected individuals to defer mortgage payments for up to a year. Another proposal, Assembly Bill 239, seeks to create a housing task force to coordinate state and federal resources.
Assemblyman Jesse Gabriel, chair of the Budget Committee, announced a bill to extend permissible hotel and motel stays for displaced families. Gabriel emphasized the critical need for stability and security for affected children and families, highlighting the bipartisan nature of the legislative response.
Assemblywoman Jessica Caloza introduced a proposal to provide up to $1,500 in cash assistance per household, emphasizing the immediate need for support to ensure survival. She also authored the Small Business Recovery Act, offering grants to help businesses recover from devastation. Caloza underscored the importance of eliminating barriers to resource access, advocating for a swift and inclusive recovery process.
In response to increased competition for rebuilding resources and labor, Assemblyman Nick Schultz put forth a bill proposing a six-year freeze on nonessential residential code changes, aimed at preventing burdensome local regulations.
Governor Gavin Newsom signed an executive order mandating state assistance in developing plans and streamlining construction efforts for local officials. The order temporarily suspends mobile home regulations in Los Angeles County to facilitate the placement of temporary housing.
Newsom highlighted the state’s decisive action to provide immediate housing and assistance for those displaced, extending moratoriums on price gouging for rentals, housing, and hotel rates until March 8. Additionally, federal hazmat teams are authorized to manage debris cleanup, focusing on hazardous materials such as propane tanks and batteries.
To support initial debris removal efforts, the Federal Emergency Management Agency is providing $100 million to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. This funding will assist in clearing dangerous materials, marking a crucial step in the recovery process.
The governor also announced $20 million in federal funding for temporary jobs related to humanitarian aid and cleanup operations. Public assistance grants will aid in rebuilding essential infrastructure, including roads, bridges, water facilities, and public utilities.
To enhance security in the affected areas, Newsom has deployed additional California Highway Patrol officers to Los Angeles. These officers are tasked with addressing unauthorized entry, looting, and other criminal activities, supplementing the existing force of highway patrol officers and National Guard members conducting traffic control operations.
