Los Angeles, January 7, 2026
Governor Gavin Newsom’s executive order aims to aid survivors of the Los Angeles firestorms by facilitating housing, mortgage relief, and community rebuilding efforts. With over $107 million allocated for affordable housing and expanded mortgage support, the initiative prioritizes swift recovery and economic stability for affected residents. This comprehensive approach includes allowing insurance benefits for eco-friendly upgrades and streamlining permitting processes, showcasing a commitment to resilience in the community.
Governor Newsom’s Executive Order Accelerates Recovery for Los Angeles Firestorm Survivors
State initiatives aim to bolster housing, mortgage relief, and community rebuilding.
Los Angeles, California – On January 6, 2026, Governor Gavin Newsom announced an executive order designed to enhance protections for survivors of the devastating firestorms in the Los Angeles area. This strategic move aims not only to support individuals and families affected but also to invigorate local businesses that have felt the economic impact. By focusing on expedited recovery efforts and community rebuilding, the state is looking to create a more resilient infrastructure devoid of unnecessary regulatory burdens.
The executive order includes significant investment and initiatives that reflect a commitment to balancing support for those impacted by the wildfires with the promise of reduced red tape for businesses. Entrepreneurs and small-business owners will benefit from these actions, which are geared toward fostering an environment conducive to growth and innovation in Los Angeles County.
Key Provisions of the Executive Order
Housing Initiatives
The state has allocated $107.3 million through the Multifamily Finance Super NOFA (MFSN-LA Disaster) to fund nine projects, equating to 673 new affordable rental homes in Los Angeles County. This initiative empowers survivors to remain in their communities while safeguarding current zoning laws and maintaining local character.
Mortgage Relief Expansion
In a substantial expansion of the CalAssist Mortgage Relief program, Los Angeles County survivors with household incomes up to $211,050 are now eligible. The prior threshold was raised by $70,000, reflecting a commitment to aid more homeowners in need. Furthermore, Bank of America has pledged additional support, including two years of mortgage forbearance for those affected, facilitating a smoother transition to recovery and stability.
Insurance Coverage for Home Improvements
Another progressive step involves allowing homeowners to utilize their insurance benefits for environmentally friendly upgrades, such as rooftop solar systems and battery storage installations. By recognizing these improvements as valid expenses during the rebuilding process, the state encourages investment in sustainable living.
Streamlined Permitting Process
The executive order has also suspended specific permitting requirements under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the California Coastal Act to expedite the establishment of new sewer systems needed for homes that were damaged or destroyed. This simplification in the permitting process is especially beneficial in reducing costs for homeowners, showcasing a meaningful adjustment that prioritizes efficient recovery over excessive bureaucracy.
Prioritization in Affordable Housing
Efforts to assist fire survivors experiencing homelessness have been expanded to include those at imminent risk of homelessness on rental housing waiting lists. This targeted approach ensures that the most vulnerable members of the community receive timely and appropriate assistance, amplifying the impact of the state’s disaster recovery initiatives.
Commitment to Community Recovery
The latest executive order builds on previous actions taken by the Newsom Administration to support fire survivors and local businesses. Earlier measures have included reducing bureaucratic barriers, providing tax relief, and protecting communities from price gouging. Each of these components plays a crucial role in creating a supportive environment where individuals and businesses can thrive in the recovery process.
Through these efforts, the state is not just responding to immediate needs but is also investing in the long-term economic stability of Los Angeles county, reinforcing the notion that proactive support can foster resilience in communities. It is vital for residents and business owners to remain informed about these initiatives, as they can significantly influence local economic growth and recovery.
Conclusion
The recent executive order signed by Governor Newsom marks a pivotal moment for survivors of the Los Angeles area firestorms and the small businesses which contribute to the local economy. By emphasizing affordable housing, mortgage relief, and streamlined processes for rebuilding, the state is paving the way for a stronger, more resilient community. Residents and local entrepreneurs are encouraged to engage with available resources and actively participate in the rebuilding process, ensuring that Los Angeles not only recovers but emerges even more vibrant and robust.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the purpose of Governor Newsom’s executive order issued on January 6, 2026?
The executive order aims to enhance protections for survivors of the Los Angeles area firestorms and provide additional support for businesses affected by the disaster, facilitating a more effective recovery process.
How much funding has been allocated for affordable housing initiatives in Los Angeles County?
The state has allocated $107.3 million from the Multifamily Finance Super NOFA (MFSN-LA Disaster) to fund nine projects, resulting in 673 new affordable rental homes in Los Angeles County.
What changes have been made to the CalAssist Mortgage Relief program?
The CalAssist Mortgage Relief program has been expanded to assist more homeowners impacted by the wildfires. In Los Angeles County, survivors with household incomes up to $211,050 are now eligible for mortgage relief, a $70,000 increase from the previous threshold.
Can homeowners use insurance benefits for rebuilding improvements?
Yes, homeowners who choose to install rooftop solar systems or battery storage as part of their rebuilding process can now use their insurance benefits to cover these upgrades, provided they have available insurance proceeds.
What measures are being taken to support the development of new sewer systems?
The executive order suspends certain permitting requirements under the California Environmental Quality Act and the California Coastal Act to facilitate the development of new sewer systems supporting damaged or destroyed homes, streamlining the rebuilding process and reducing costs for homeowners.
How are fire survivors prioritized for affordable housing?
The executive order expands previous efforts to prioritize fire survivors experiencing homelessness on waiting lists for rental housing, now including survivors at imminent risk of homelessness, ensuring timely assistance for those most in need.
Key Features of the Executive Order
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Housing Initiatives | Allocation of $107.3 million for 673 new affordable rental homes in Los Angeles County to help survivors remain in their communities. |
| Mortgage Relief Expansion | Expansion of the CalAssist Mortgage Relief program to include survivors with household incomes up to $211,050 in Los Angeles County. |
| Insurance Coverage for Home Improvements | Homeowners can use insurance benefits for rooftop solar systems and battery storage installations during rebuilding, provided they have available insurance proceeds. |
| Septic System Replacement | Suspension of certain permitting requirements to facilitate the development of new sewer systems supporting damaged or destroyed homes. |
| Affordable Housing Prioritization | Expansion of prioritization for fire survivors experiencing homelessness to include those at imminent risk of homelessness on rental housing waiting lists. |
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