LOS ANGELES, Jan. 14, 2025  — In light of the devastating wildfires in Southern California, Governor Gavin Newsom has issued executive orders aimed at expediting recovery for affected homeowners. These measures include suspending CEQA reviews and California Coastal Act permitting for replacement housing construction, streamlining state agency processes, extending price gouging protections through January 7, 2026, and fast-tracking debris removal to speed up rebuilding efforts.

"The CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® (C.A.R.) applauds these efforts but strongly urges the governor and legislature to expand the streamlining measures to broader housing construction in Los Angeles and nearby counties," said Heather Ozur, C.A.R. President and Palm Springs REALTOR®. "The Los Angeles area already faces a severe housing shortage, and the fires have displaced many residents. Streamlining construction is essential to address this urgent need."

C.A.R. also backs the governor’s budget proposal, which includes the Wildfire Settlements Income Exclusion, exempting wildfire settlements from state taxes from 2025 to 2029, providing critical financial relief. Additional funds have been allocated for home hardening initiatives to make properties more fire-resistant.

Insurance challenges remain significant in wildfire recovery. C.A.R. supports Assembly Bill 226, co-authored by Lisa Calderon and David Alvarez, which seeks to strengthen the FAIR Plan for homeowners unable to secure private market insurance. They also advocate for the moratorium on policy cancellations and support the California Department of Insurance's 'Sustainable Insurance Strategy,' which aims to stabilize insurance access in high-risk areas.

"C.A.R. urges state leaders to prioritize forward-thinking policies through legislation, budgets, and regulations to support wildfire victims, address the housing shortage, and tackle insurance challenges exacerbated by these wildfires. We will continue working with the governor and legislature to advance robust investments for wildfire recovery and long-term housing and insurance stability," Ozur added.

About the CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®

‍For nearly 120 years, the CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® has been a leading advocate for real estate professionals and homeowners in California. Representing over 200,000 members, C.A.R. remains committed to advancing professionalism in real estate. Learn more at www.car.org.