Assemblymember Harabedian Acts to Extend Mortgage Forbearance for LA Wildfire Survivors and Protect all Californians

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:February 11, 2026

CONTACT:Sam Villaneda, [email protected](760) 269-9391 or

Tom Steel, [email protected](530) 713-7783

Assemblymember Harabedian Acts to Extend Mortgage Forbearance for LA Wildfire Survivors and Protect all Californians

(SACRAMENTO, CA) - Today,Assemblymember John Harabedian (D - Pasadena)announced legislation to extend AB 238: The Mortgage Forbearance Act (Harabedian, 2025) by two additional years for Los Angeles Fire survivors who are struggling to make timely mortgage payments, and create a statewide mortgage forbearance program for future natural disaster survivors.

Recovery from the Eaton and Palisades fires has proven longer and more complex than initially anticipated. Insurance claim delays, labor and materials shortages, permitting backlogs, and escalating rebuilding costs have left many homeowners displaced well beyond the original forbearance period.

"Wildfire victims continue to face incredible challenges and need additional support as they continue to rebuild their lives. By extending mortgage forbearance for up to two years total, AB 1847 will ensure that families are not subject to foreclosure while they recover and get back on their feet," said Assemblymember John Harabedian (D-Pasadena).

In addition, Assemblymember Harabedian is introducing AB 1842 :The California Emergency Mortgage Relief Act, a first-of-its-kind statewide protection for homeowners affected by natural disasters. This landmark legislation establishes a clear, consistent framework that allows any homeowner to pause mortgage payments whenever a state of emergency is declared by the Governor or federal government -covering disasters such as wildfires, floods, earthquakes, and other catastrophic events.

"California is facing more frequent and severe natural disasters, and families should not have to worry about mortgage payments on homes they cannot live in," Assemblymember John Harabedian (D-Pasadena)said. "These bills are about more than mortgages-they are about giving families hope, security, and a chance to rebuild their lives after unimaginable loss. No Californian should have to choose between losing their home and recovering from a disaster. By extending protections and creating a statewide safety net, we are standing with families when they need it most, helping them heal, rebuild, and stay rooted in their communities."

Both bills provide strong consumer protections, including prohibitions on foreclosure during forbearance, safeguards for credit reporting, and clear rules for servicer accountability and oversight. Together, they represent a major step forward in helping Californians recover from disasters while maintaining financial security.

These bills will be heard in policy committee in the spring.

#####

Assemblymember John Harabedian represents the 41st District composed of the cities of La Cañada Flintridge, Pasadena, Altadena, Sierra Madre, Monrovia, Bradbury, San Dimas, La Verne, Claremont, Upland, Rancho Cucamonga, Oak Hills, Piñon Hills and Phelan.