Local Ballot Measures: LA voters could see rent control and tenant protection measures on their ballots. Cities like Pasadena and Santa Monica are considering more stringent rent control expansions, which would cap rent increases and limit no-fault evictions. Voter sentiment around rent control has been gaining momentum, with tenant advocacy rallies and city meetings taking place throughout late September 2024. If you live in one of these areas, these measures could provide additional protection from steep rent hikes and unjust evictions.

Affordable Housing Initiatives: Affordable housing is always a hot topic in California, and new initiatives could potentially increase funding for affordable housing projects across LA County. Keep an eye on potential bonds or measures that may appear in November that allocate funds for building more housing, specifically for low-income tenants.

Impact of the Presidential and Congressional Elections: While national elections might seem distant from your daily life, policies related to housing assistance and federal rent relief could see significant shifts depending on the outcomes of the federal races. Depending on which candidates win, we could see an expansion or reduction in housing vouchers, rent relief programs, or federal housing grants. It's a reminder that your vote counts when it comes to the policies that affect your rent.

AB 12: Rental Application Fee Caps
If you’re tired of paying high application fees only to get rejected, you’re not alone. Assembly Bill 12 is designed to cap the fees landlords can charge tenants for rental applications. This bill could make applying for apartments in LA much more affordable and could pass as early as Q4 2024. 💰

AB 854: Just Cause Evictions
Another bill to watch is AB 854, which would further expand protections against unjust evictions. It builds on previous laws by adding more stringent requirements for landlords who attempt to remove tenants for reasons other than lease violations. With tenant rights groups actively pushing for its swift passage, especially after the rise in eviction complaints post-COVID moratoriums, this bill could be a game-changer for tenants facing housing insecurity.

Tenant Buyouts and Relocation Assistance:
New legislation could also formalize and regulate how landlords must handle tenant buyouts, giving renters more leverage and ensuring fair compensation. Whether you're moving voluntarily or being forced to relocate due to development, this is worth paying attention to.

Renter’s Rights Workshops:
Various LA-based organizations like LA Tenants Union and Housing Rights Center are hosting free virtual and in-person workshops throughout the end of the year. These workshops cover topics like understanding your lease, how to handle eviction notices, and what to do if your landlord isn’t maintaining the property. 🏘️

Affordable Housing Lotteries:
Keep your eyes peeled for upcoming affordable housing lotteries in LA. Projects in Downtown LA and Koreatown are expected to open applications by late October, giving you a shot at securing a below-market-rate apartment. The demand is high, but it’s worth applying!

Holiday Rent Relief Programs:
The holiday season can be financially stressful, but local governments and nonprofits often roll out rent relief programs in Q4. With inflation and the recovering job market making this a particularly challenging time for renters, rent relief programs aimed at helping low-income families and those affected by COVID-19 economic fallout are likely to expand as the holidays approach. Be sure to apply early to increase your chances of receiving assistance.

The Fate of COVID-Era Eviction Moratoriums:
Most eviction moratoriums have ended, but some renter advocates are pushing to extend protections into 2025 for tenants who are still struggling financially. Pay attention to any local or state movements on this front in the coming months.

Rent Control Expansions:
Rent control could be expanded in more cities across California in 2025. As we’ve seen with places like Santa Monica and Pasadena, there’s growing momentum for rent control across the state. Cities like West Hollywood and even parts of Los Angeles proper could see efforts to push for more tenant protections. The ongoing tenant harassment discussions and the strengthening of anti-harassment laws have contributed to an increasing call for rent control, and more cities may follow suit next year.