Wednesday, June 25, 2025

LA County Extends Price Gouging Protections

CITY NEWS SERVICE

The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Tuesday agreed to extend price gouging protections on local rental housing for another 30 days, with two board members saying the issue continues to pose a problem in the aftermath of the January wildfires.

On Jan. 7, a state of emergency was declared in the county following the windstorm and deadly wildfires in Pacific Palisades and Altadena, activating price gouging protections that barred price hikes of 10% or more on critical goods and services, including housing.

The wildfires destroyed thousands of structures and displaced residents and businesses who continue to navigate the repercussions, a motion by Supervisors Lindsey Horvath and Kathryn Barger states.

“The fires may have been six months ago, but for too many, recovery is still ongoing — and unfortunately, that’s exactly when bad actors try to strike,” Horvath said in a statement.

“Price gouging protections are essential to making sure our communities can rebuild without being exploited. In Los Angeles County, we must not stand by while vulnerable residents are taken advantage of. If you suspect price gouging, report it to our Department of Consumer and Business Affairs so we can hold these bad actors accountable.”

The motion stated the protections are “still necessary,” citing a recent Los Angeles Times report indicating that rent prices at properties adjacent to the burn areas are rising faster than other areas in the county.

“Families that signed six-month short-term leases in the immediate wake of the fires, could now face drastic price increases of 50% or more without further price gouging protection, as they will continue to need alternate accommodations as they rebuild their homes and their lives,” the motion states.

The county’s existing protections were set to expire July 1. State law allows for extensions every 30 days.

The approved motion will extend the price gouging protections for rentals and temporary stays through July 31.

“In the aftermath of unimaginable loss, wildfire survivors deserve the peace of mind that comes with knowing they won’t be priced out of their communities,” said Barger. “Extending these protections is a vital step that provides stability and dignity as families continue their rebuilding journey. We have a responsibility to stand with them and ensure that recovery is not exploited for profit.”