Overview

A new county ordinance aimed at enhancing eviction protections for tenants in unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County has come into effect. This measure raises the threshold for eviction, requiring renters to be at least two months behind on fair market rent before landlords can initiate eviction proceedings.

The previous requirement was set at one month, and the change is intended to provide tenants with additional time to manage their financial situations while balancing the needs of landlords.

Key details

  • The ordinance took effect on Thursday.
  • Renters must be at least two months behind on fair market rent for landlords to attempt eviction.
  • The previous threshold for eviction was one month.
  • Supervisor Janice Hahn co-sponsored the motion and supports the increase as a necessary measure.
  • Hahn hopes the additional month will provide renters with more breathing room.
  • The ordinance amends the Rent Stabilization and Tenant Protections Ordinance from 2022.
  • This change is part of efforts to reduce homelessness in the county.
  • Financial pressures on tenants have reportedly increased due to federal immigration enforcement actions.
  • Supervisor Hilda Solis emphasized that the county's actions are concrete steps to protect renters.
  • Some tenants’ rights activists advocate for an even higher threshold of three months.
  • Supervisor Lindsey Horvath previously introduced a motion for a three-month threshold, but it did not gain support.
  • Supervisor Kathryn Barger was the only board member to oppose the two-month threshold increase.

Context

The enhanced eviction protections come amid rising financial pressures on renters, particularly in light of recent federal immigration enforcement efforts that have impacted employment and business operations in the area.

What happens next

The implementation of this ordinance will be monitored, and further discussions may arise regarding additional measures to support tenants facing eviction.

What we don't know yet

It remains unclear how the new ordinance will be enforced, the potential impact on landlords, and whether there will be future proposals to further increase the eviction threshold.