California REALTORS® Advocate for Homeowners Insurance Stabilization Amid Wildfire Crisis

California REALTORS® Advocate for Homeowners Insurance Stabilization

As California endures the aftermath of devastating wildfires, leading organizations are stepping up in a significant way. The California Association of REALTORS® (C.A.R.) has expressed strong support for new measures aimed at stabilizing the availability of homeowners insurance, particularly in areas heavily impacted by these natural disasters.

On January 13, 2025, C.A.R. issued a statement regarding proactive solutions presented by policymakers to alleviate the ongoing insurance crisis in the state. The wildfires in Southern California not only resulted in the destruction of homes and businesses but also deepened the insurance woes for many residents. C.A.R. President Heather Ozur, a REALTOR® based in Palm Springs, asserted the organization’s commitment to support various legislative measures intended to lessen uncertainties for homeowners.

At the forefront of C.A.R.'s efforts is Assembly Bill 226, championed by Assembly Insurance Committee Chair Lisa Calderon and Assemblymember David Alvarez. This pivotal bill aims to reinforce protections for policyholders of the FAIR Plan, which serves as a critical insurance safety net for many Californians. The support for this bill signifies C.A.R.'s dedication to advocating for the rights and well-being of homeowners during these turbulent times.

In addition to endorsing the bill, C.A.R. applauded the decision made by Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara to impose a moratorium on homeowner insurance policy cancellations. This temporary halt aims to provide a respite for policyholders, ensuring they retain their coverage amid the ongoing crisis.

C.A.R. is also backing the California Department of Insurance's 'Sustainable Insurance Strategy'. This comprehensive plan seeks to dismantle barriers to insurance access, especially for those residing in high-risk areas prone to disasters. The organization believes that these steps are essential in providing much-needed support for Californians recovering from the significant impacts of wildfires.

For nearly 120 years, C.A.R. has been a prominent advocate for the real estate sector, showcasing its commitment to enhancing professionalism and advocating for real estate interests across the state. With more than 200,000 members, it stands as one of the largest state trade organizations in the United States.

As policymakers and organizations collaborate to address the pressing challenges of homeowners insurance, C.A.R. remains at the forefront of efforts to ensure that all homeowners have access to the insurance they need. The ongoing crises have underscored the importance of such initiatives, and C.A.R. is prepared to work closely with government leaders to find effective solutions for California's homeowners.

In this climate of uncertainty, C.A.R.'s commitment to change represents hope for those who have lost so much due to natural disasters. The organization's proactive stance demonstrates that while challenges are immense, collective action can facilitate significant advancements in insurance stability, benefiting the community as a whole.