Protections in place for utility pay, renters, and homeowners during COVID-19 pandemic

On Monday, Governor Gavin Newsom issued an executive order that authorizes local governments to halt evictions for renters and homeowners, slow foreclosures, and protect against utility shutoffs for Californians affected by COVID-19.

A full version of the Executive Order can be found here.

This Executive Order comes as Californians are experiencing substantial loss of hours or wages, or layoffs related to COVID-19, affecting their ability to keep up with their rents, mortgages, and utility bills.

“People shouldn’t lose or be forced out of their home because of the spread of COVID-19,” said Governor Newsom. “Over the next few weeks, everyone will have to make sacrifices – but a place to live shouldn’t be one of them. I strongly encourage cities and counties take up this authority to protect Californians.”

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The statement also noted "The order does not relieve a tenant from the obligation to pay rent, or restrict the landlord’s ability to recover rent that is due. The protections are in effect through May 31, 2020, unless extended. The order also requests banks and other financial institutions to halt foreclosures and related evictions during this time period."

Some properties with residents are taking measures to help their residents. One property manager in the Coachella Valley said they are waiving late fees for rent due. They are also not going to be issuing any evictions to residents during this time. They did say they will be taking this case by case since everyone does have a different situation. Check with your property manager to see if you will have leniency with rent.

Southern California Edison has also been taking measures to help residents with utilities. Robert Villegas is a spokesperson with Southern California Edison. Over the phone, he said, “We are not disconnecting any customers who are unable to pay their bill." They also ask that any customers that are having any financial issues call their customer service line to sort out any financial issues. Villegas said the safety of customers is their top priority. They will also be rescheduling any non-critical outages that were previously scheduled."

Southern California Edison message to customers

If you or your family are looking for financial assistance due to being sick or quarantined, you're a caregiver for children home from school or those who are sick, your work hours have been reduced, or any other circumstances due to COVID-19 you can visit the Employment Development Department for more information on financial support during this time.

Kaiser recommends that those in the Coachella Valley who are elderly and have underlying health conditions, including individuals who are HIV positive, limit non-essential travel and avoid large public gatherings.

Health officials said anyone who thinks they might be experiencing symptoms of the virus and want to be seen at Eisenhower Health should call the hospital hotline first at 760-837-8988. Avoid the spread of this illness.
Residents with further questions can call 2-1-1 and 800–CDC –INFO (800 – 232 – 4636) with any questions.

Public health recommendations for all Riverside County residents during community spread:

Practice social distancing, which is remaining out of places where people meet or gather and avoid using public transportation, if possible.
Do not attend work, school or events when sick. Stay home.
Cough into your elbow or tissue.
Wash hands frequently and use hand sanitizer often.
Stay away from anyone who is sick.