SACRAMENTO, Calif.—California Gov. Gavin Newsom has issued an executive order to help prevent evictions during the coronavirus outbreak. As CUToday.info reported earlier, New Jersey is also fast-tracking similar legislation.
The California order gives local governments the authority to halt evictions for renters and homeowners but stops short of creating a statewide moratorium. The order also aims to slow foreclosures and help keep utilities running for residents affected by COVID-19, according to the state.
“People shouldn’t lose or be forced out of their home because of the spread of COVID-19,” Newsom said in a statement. “Over the next few weeks, everyone will have to make sacrifices – but a place to live shouldn’t be one of them. I strongly encourage cities and counties take up this authority to protect Californians.”
The order will be in effect through the end of May and could be extended, according to the governor’s office. The order does not mean renters won’t have to pay rent, but it could mean delayed payments for some. The order urges banks and financial institutions to stop foreclosures and evictions during the same time period.
In California, schools, restaurants, bars, stadiums, theaters and other businesses have shuttered, leaving service workers without jobs, at least temporarily.
Other Temporary Changes Urged
“An increase in evictions, terminations of housing assistance, foreclosures, and related negative actions will affect the ability of community members to maintain good hygiene and take the basic measures that we have all been advised to take in order to protect ourselves and our communities,” noted a letter sent to the governor by eight members of the General Assembly.
The letter also called for a range of temporary policies, including a 45-day or more moratorium on foreclosures and eviction notices, utility shutoffs and new unlawful detainer filings.
San Jose, San Francisco and Los Angeles have also put forward similar rules around evictions.