Assembly Bill (AB) 1106, which extends Los Angeles County’s Enhanced Homeowner Notification Program, has received Governor Gavin Newsom’s signature, according to Assemblywoman Christy Smith (D-Santa Clarita), the bill’s author.

The homeowner protection bill continues the program’s fraud prevention, information and free counseling services for property owners and tenants.

The measure also marks Smith’s third bill signed into law.

“It’s no secret California is facing a housing crisis, even during this period of economic expansion,” Smith said. “This bill provides a safety net for homeowners who have worked hard to purchase and maintain their homes. I’m immensely proud to partner with the Los Angeles Department of Consumer Business Affairs to prevent foreclosure and real estate fraud, promote tenant protections and honor the dignity of work.”

The program has equipped homeowners with resources to keep their homes since its inception in 1992. Through the enhanced program, DCBA has been able to prevent home foreclosures, facilitate successful loan modifications and help homeowners navigate predatory real estate practices. The bill allows Los Angeles County to continue these services for another decade by extending the sunset date.

AB 1106 also amassed coauthor support from fellow Los Angeles County representatives, Assemblymembers Richard Bloom (D-Santa Monica) and Al Muratsuchi (D-Torrance) and Senator Henry Stern (D-Malibu).

“The Department of Consumer and Business Affairs’ Foreclosure Prevention Program has saved over 475 homes from foreclosure, helped homeowners save more than $30 million in successful loan modifications and helped them with fraud avoidance,” said Joseph Nicchita, Director of Los Angeles County Department of Consumer and Business Affairs.

“I thank Assemblywoman Smith for championing this measure with support from Assemblymembers Bloom and Muratsuchi and Senator Stern, ensuring the homeowners of Los Angeles County can continue receiving this important service,” Nicchita said.

AB 1106 will take effect on Jan. 1, 2020.

Assemblywoman Christy Smith represents California’s 38th Assembly District, which includes the communities of Santa Clarita, Simi Valley, Agua Dulce, Castaic, Santa Susana Knolls and North San Fernando Valley.