New California Laws Impact Housing and Safety

Several new laws have gone into effect in California as of July 1, 2024, with significant impacts on housing and consumer protections. Assembly Bill 12 caps security deposits at one month's rent, aiming to reduce financial barriers for renters and increase housing accessibility, particularly benefiting low-income tenants, immigrants, and people of color. Additionally, new legislation bans hidden fees in advertised prices for businesses, requiring them to display the true cost of products and services. Another law mandates bars and clubs to offer date rape drug testing kits, either for free or for purchase, to enhance safety in nightlife venues. These measures are expected to balance tenant protections and affordability while addressing housing accessibility issues in an increasingly expensive rental market.