California Atty. Sent by General Rob Bonda More than 200 letters His office announced Friday that he has warned landlords and hotels that they have been charged with wildfire-related price gouging.
“The price hikes we are seeing and hearing must stop now,” Bonda said in a release. “These letters are one of the many tools my office will use to stop this illegal activity. Let them serve as a reminder that we are taking swift action, and we will not stop until prices rise.
Online listings are shown Landlords raise prices by 50% or more Rents advertised before last week's fires were much higher than the 10% increase allowed under the law. Activist groups have put together spreadsheets of alleged violators Officials urged to take action.
The letters notify recipients that they are subject to a price gouging complaint and inform them of the provisions of the law and the penalties for violating it. In addition to the letters, Ponta noted that his office is actively pursuing criminal investigations into price gouging.
On Friday, Gov. Gavin Newsom issued an executive order banning evictions against tenants who shelter one or more people displaced by the wildfires.
“Opening your home to help shelter those in need is inspiring and generous, but deserves to be protected,” Newsom said in a release.
Newsom's order remains in effect until March 8.