California Wildfires Spark Rent Price Gouging

In the wake of devastating wildfires in Los Angeles, landlords are reportedly exploiting the crisis by significantly raising rental prices, with some listings nearly doubling since the fires began. California's Attorney General Rob Bonta has condemned this price gouging, which is illegal under state law during emergencies, and emphasized that those found guilty could face prosecution. Displaced residents, like Maya Lieberman, share harrowing experiences of searching for new homes, facing exorbitant rents and predatory demands from landlords. The wildfires have displaced over 150,000 people, claiming at least 16 lives and destroying entire neighborhoods, including upscale areas like Pacific Palisades. Reports indicate that rental prices are rising by more than 20% compared to pre-fire levels, as opportunistic landlords target those in desperate need of housing. Authorities have vowed to take action against these practices, but many residents feel abandoned and exploited during this difficult time.