CA AB246

Allows tenants to assert "Social Security hardship" as an affirmative defense in eviction proceedings for nonpayment of rent, defined as loss of income due to interrupted Social Security benefits caused by federal government action or inaction

Requires tenants claiming the defense to prove their Social Security benefits were terminated, delayed, or reduced through no fault of their own, and that this prevented rent payment

Courts must stay eviction proceedings for up to 6 months or until 14 days after benefits are restored, whichever comes first

Tenants must pay all past-due rent or enter a payment plan within 14 days of benefits being restored; compliance results in dismissal of the eviction case

The Judicial Council must adopt necessary forms by January 1, 2027; the law expires January 20, 2029