Today, Supervisor Kathryn Barger successfully introduced a motion to support H.R. 1179, the Chiquita Canyon Tax Relief Act, introduced by Congressman George Whitesides.
“The families living near Chiquita Canyon Landfill have endured months of disruption to their daily lives and growing financial burdens,” said Supervisor Kathryn Barger. “Supporting this federal legislation is another critical step toward delivering meaningful relief. I deeply appreciate Congressman Whitesides for introducing H.R. 1179 and am pleased that my colleagues joined me in standing with impacted residents.”
If enacted, H.R. 1179 would amend the Internal Revenue Code to exclude from taxable income any compensation payments received by individuals for losses or damages caused by the Chiquita Canyon SET event after March 1, 2024. This includes reimbursements for expenses such as relocation, suffering, lost property value, and real estate closing costs. The bill would treat such payments as Qualified Disaster Relief Payments (QDRPs), offering vital tax relief for residents who have already suffered substantial hardship.
“This isn’t just about policy—it’s about doing what’s right for our constituents,” added Supervisor Barger. “They deserve financial relief and federal recognition of the seriousness of this disaster.”
The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors unanimously voted in support of Supervisor Barger’s motion, which directs the County’s Chief Executive Officer, through the Legislative Affairs and Intergovernmental Relations Branch, to formally support H.R. 1179 and advocate for its passage.
Congressman George Whitesides expressed his appreciation for the Board’s action.
“Thanks to Supervisor Barger and all the Supervisors who supported my bill today to bring much needed tax relief to families impacted by the Chiquita Canyon Landfill,” Congressman Whitesides stated. “With local, state, and federal advocates all working together to respond to the landfill crisis, I’m hopeful we can make some serious progress for our constituents who have been burdened by these toxins and pollutants for far too long.”