California: Natural Disaster Bill May Extend Aid

The California Senate has approved legislation that would force insurers to cover the living expenses for two years incurred by homeowners whose houses are destroyed by fires or other natural disasters during a state of emergency.

The bill's author, state Sen. Jackie Speier (D-Dale City), says insurers will pay out the same amount, as the legislation simply extends the coverage period by 12 months but does not affect the payout amount.

The bill is in response to the 2003 wildfires in Southern California, since many of the owners of the more than 3,600 ravaged homes could not get a contractor to rebuild within one year. The bill has been sent to the Assembly for consideration.