Gov. Gavin Newsom proposes $125M mortgage relief program to help victims of recent natural disasters
The program would aim to help homeowners whose homes were destroyed or severely damaged by recent natural disasters, placing them at risk of foreclosure. Funding for the program would also extend an existing counseling services program, which helps affected homeowners navigate their recovery.
Newsom's office also noted that the relief package would utilize existing mortgage settlement funding and would not impact the proposed 2025-26 budget.
California bill would require insurers to pay full coverage without itemized lists
'As survivors heal from the trauma of recent disasters, the threat of foreclosure should be the last thing on their minds. This disaster mortgage relief program would help lift this burden and give families more time to focus on recovery,' Newsom said in a statement.
Survivors of natural disasters since 2023, including those affected by the Park Fire, Franklin Fire, and the recent Palisades and Eaton Fires, would be eligible for mortgage assistance.
The California Housing Finance Agency would administer the program, which would include over $100 million in direct mortgage assistance, with an additional $25 million to extend an existing program that provides mortgage counseling and serves survivors by offering guidance on FEMA disaster assistance and other related needs, according to the governor's office.
The proposal will be considered at the CalHFA's next meeting on Feb. 20.
The direct assistance program and eligibility criteria will be developed and announced in more detail, if approved.
Trump official considering running for California governor if Kamala Harris enters race
While help could be on the way for impacted homeowners, many still face uncertainty about insurance coverage.
State Farm General, California's largest insurer, requested a rate hike averaging 22% due to its 'dire' financial situation after the deadly and destructive L.A. County wildfires.
California Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara rejected the request and is asking to speak with company officials about their financial situation.
This comes after the company asked for a separate rate hike request to raise rates by 30% for homeowners, 36% for condo owners and 52% for renters, on average, last June. That request is still pending.
Since 2023, State Farm hasn't accepted new insurance applications for all business and personal property in California. Since then, other companies have announced similar moves.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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