In a significant move to bolster tenant protections amid the state’s ongoing housing crisis, California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed Assembly Bill 2347 into law. This legislation, effective January 1, 2025, extends the period tenants have to respond to eviction lawsuits from five to ten business days.
Authored by Assemblymember Ash Kalra, AB 2347 amends Sections 1167 and 1170 of the California Code of Civil Procedure. The extension aims to provide tenants, particularly those in rural areas or facing challenges in accessing legal assistance, with a more reasonable timeframe to seek counsel and prepare their defense.
Tenant advocacy groups have lauded the new law, emphasizing that the previous five-day response window, established in 1971, was insufficient given today’s complexities in securing legal representation and navigating the judicial process. They argue that the additional time will help prevent unjust evictions and reduce the risk of homelessness for vulnerable populations.
Conversely, some landlord associations express concerns that the extended timeline may lead to prolonged periods without rental income and increased legal expenses. They caution that such measures could inadvertently discourage property owners from offering rental units, potentially exacerbating the housing shortage.
This legislative change comes as California continues to grapple with housing affordability and stability issues. Recent reports indicate a rise in eviction filings following the expiration of pandemic-era tenant protections, underscoring the need for updated legal frameworks to address the evolving challenges faced by renters statewide.
As the implementation date approaches, both tenants and landlords are advised to familiarize themselves with the new provisions of AB 2347. Legal experts recommend that tenants facing eviction seek assistance promptly to fully utilize the extended response period, while landlords should review their eviction procedures to ensure compliance with the updated law.
