The Los Angeles City Council on Tuesday, Jan. 14, delayed a proposal to enact a citywide eviction moratorium and rent freeze, opting instead to send the motion to committee for further consideration.
The measure, introduced by Councilmembers Hugo Soto-Martinez and Eunisses Hernandez, was the only one among 28 emergency items that did not advance during the meeting. The proposal came in response to widespread displacement and housing challenges caused by the recent Palisades and Eaton fires.
“The California Apartment Association extends its sympathies to those impacted by the recent fires and remains committed to supporting recovery efforts that address the needs of displaced residents while ensuring balanced policies for housing providers,” said Fred Sutton, senior vice president of public affairs. “The Penal code 396 price gouging law is in effect, and those who are violating the law should have the book thrown at them.”
While the rent freeze proposal was delayed, the council passed a narrower ordinance prohibiting evictions related to unauthorized occupants or pets for tenants displaced by the fires. The final language of this ordinance is expected in the coming days.
The fires, which destroyed homes and displaced thousands across Los Angeles County, have prompted city officials to consider emergency housing policies aimed at supporting affected residents. The delayed motion would have allowed tenants to self-attest to financial or medical hardship due to the fires, shielding them from eviction for a year while freezing rents citywide.
CAA opposed the motion, citing concerns that its broad scope could create significant challenges for housing providers without effectively addressing the needs of displaced tenants. CAA representatives attended the meeting and advocated for more targeted policies.
“These emergency motions should address the immediate needs of those displaced and impacted by the fires,” Sutton added. “Sweeping measures that extend beyond those directly in need are not the solution. Housing providers remain committed to assisting those affected, but policymaking must remain focused and responsible.”
Although delayed, the rent freeze proposal has been referred to committee, with a hearing expected at a later date.
For Sutton’s testimony before the City Council this week, check out the video below.
