Newsom Vetoes Eviction-Delay Legislation

Late last month, the Legislature passed Assembly Bill 1487, which aimed to create a “homelessness prevention fund” and establish a statewide eviction defense program. Authored by Assembly member Jesse Gabriel (D-Woodland Hills), AB 1487 also would have supported education, outreach and direct legal services aimed at preventing displacement and homelessness.

The measure went to Gov. Gavin Newsom’s desk for signature or veto by Oct. 10. He chose the latter.

One of the opposing entities, California Apartment Association (CAA), took part in defeating the legislation that would have provided free legal representation to tenants who face eviction due to unpaid rent. In a CAA-led grassroots campaign this summer, thousands of rental housing providers urged lawmakers to reject the proposal.

Although the bill ultimately won legislative approval, Newsom refused to sign it.