East SBV Times

Today, California Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara extended a one-year moratorium on non-renewals of homeowners insurance policies for areas affected by the Hughes Fire. This decision was made following an appeal from Senator Suzette Martinez Valladares (R-Santa Clarita). The amended order now includes zip codes 91354, 91355, 91381, 91383, 91384, 91390, 93040, 93222, 93225, 93243, and 93532.

"The fires throughout Los Angeles County were devastating and the Hughes Fire was an immediate threat to our community," said Sen. Valladares. "My constituents are already grappling with unaffordable insurance premiums, and the uncertainty of having coverage is unsettling for our families when faced with the instability the fires have caused."

On January 23rd, Sen. Valladares expressed her concerns in a letter to Lara about residents dealing with rising wildfire threats and increasing insurance costs. Many feared their insurance providers might cancel coverage due to their homes' proximity to the Hughes Fire.

Senator Valladares urged swift action from the Insurance Commissioner so that residents could maintain their coverage. She emphasized that this change offers much-needed security amidst financial burdens caused by high premiums.

"The Hughes Fire is another example of the increasing challenges we face," said Sen. Valladares. "We are seeing more extreme wildfires, more devastation, and an insurance market that isn’t keeping up with these growing threats. I’m grateful that the Commissioner extended this relief and security to our community."

Senator Valladares has been a consistent advocate for wildfire victims by supporting policies addressing both immediate destruction and long-term rebuilding efforts while ensuring affordable insurance options remain available. Her previous legislative efforts include proposing studies on easing the insurance crisis and facilitating fuel removal from federal land prone to wildfires.

Residents in affected areas who have received non-renewal notices should contact either the Insurance Commissioner's office or Sen. Valladares's office for assistance.