California Gov. Gavin Newsom has issued an executive order making it clear that local governments can impose eviction protections for tenants who are unable to pay their rent because of the coronavirus or loss of income as a result of the outbreak.

The California Apartment Association will work diligently to ensure that local governments that pursue such moratoria adopt reasonable measures for both rental property owners and renters and that their policies are consistent with the parameters in the executive order.

According to Newsom’s order, such ordinances should spell out that if a tenant cannot pay the rent because of COVID-19, that tenant’s rental payment is deferred for a reasonable period but not waived.

CAA continues to pursue state and local funding to help renters make their rent payments and to assist landlords who may be experiencing challenges paying their mortgages during this crisis.

Newsom’s order also extended through May 31, 2020, a provision of the state’s anti-price gouging law that prohibits a landlord from evicting a tenant and then charging the new tenant a rent higher than could have been legally charged to the evicted tenant.

Already, a number of local jurisdictions have approved COVID-19 eviction moratoria. A full list of jurisdictions that have imposed or are considering temporary eviction prohibitions can be found at CAA’s COVID-19 resources page. Check this page periodically for updates.

CAA urges rental property owners and managers to act with compassion in dealing with residents who face coronavirus-related hardships in all locations, regardless of whether a moratorium on evictions is in place.