California has recently passed several new laws in response to rising living costs. With housing prices, utility bills, and everyday service fees increasing, these measures aim to provide some relief for residents. They focus on practical protections for consumers without promising to solve the state’s broader economic challenges.
According to Patch, among the recently approved package of measures, these six are the ones most likely to impact taxpayers’ wallets:
Refunds on food delivery orders (AB 578)
This law guarantees that customers receive a refund if a food delivery platform doesn’t complete their order. It streamlines the refund process and seeks to eliminate the “junk fees” and complicated refund procedures that have long frustrated users of app-based delivery services.
Protection for renters facing benefit delays (AB 246)
This legislation prevents tenants from being evicted just because delays or reductions in Social Security benefits temporarily impact their ability to pay rent. The measure aims to safeguard vulnerable Californians, especially seniors and people with disabilities, from losing their homes due to administrative delays.
More transparency for car buyers (SB 766)
The measure targets misleading practices in the auto sales industry. It mandates clearer disclosures during the car-buying process and prohibits add-on services or features that offer no real value to consumers. Advocates say the law will help Californians steer clear of unnecessary markups and confusing sales tactics.
Easier cancellations for homeowners (AB 1327)
The measure updates home-improvement and home-solicitation contracts for modern times. Homeowners can now cancel agreements by phone or email, a change advocates say was long overdue. The update is designed to shield consumers from pushy sales practices and the hassle of outdated, paper-based cancellation procedures.
Cracking down on price collusion (AB 325)
This regulation aims to modernize California’s antitrust laws for the digital age. The bill brings pricing algorithms under state antitrust scrutiny, stopping companies from using software to coordinate prices or artificially limit supply to drive up costs. It focuses on uncovering hidden forms of collusion in online marketplaces and e-commerce.
Basic appliances now required for rentals (AB 628)
This law mandates that all rental units come equipped with essential kitchen appliances, including a working stove and refrigerator, to be deemed habitable. Advocates for tenants say the measure fills a gap in state housing regulations and guarantees renters access to basic living necessities.