The State of California has authorized cities and counties to enact broad measures to place moratoriums on evictions for non-payment of rent as a result of the COVID-19 emergency.

Gov. Gavin Newsom issued an executive order that authorizes local governments to halt evictions for renters and homeowners, slows foreclosures, and protects against utility shutoffs for Californians affected by COVID-19.

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.

The executive order directs the California Public Utilities Commission to monitor measures undertaken by public and private utility providers to implement customer service protections for critical utilities, including electric, gas, water, internet, landline telephone and cell phone service on a weekly basis.

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