Governor Newsom Accelerates Housing and Affordability with New Legislation Building on Historic Reforms
California Enacts New Legislation to Accelerate Housing Development
In a landmark move to tackle California’s housing crisis, Governor Gavin Newsom signed a series of bills aimed at accelerating housing development across the state. These measures focus on expediting the permitting process, streamlining production, and reinforcing housing laws to ensure accountability. By integrating climate measures, the bills also promote affordable, transit-oriented housing solutions.
Key Legislative Measures to Spur Housing Growth
The signed legislation introduces innovative strategies to meet California’s housing goals:
- Faster Permitting and Inspection: The new laws reduce red tape in the housing permitting process, making approvals quicker and easier to navigate.
- Streamlined Production: The reforms address the diverse needs of Californian communities, expanding affordable housing options close to jobs and schools.
- Enhanced Enforcement: Strengthened housing laws with robust enforcement tools ensure compliance and accountability.
- Climate-Conscious Housing: Laws facilitating transit-oriented developments also lower barriers for installing EV charging stations in residential complexes.
Major Bills Signed into Law
| Bill Number | Proposed By | Description |
|---|---|---|
| AB 36 | Assemblymember Esmerelda Soria (D-Merced) | Housing elements: prohousing designation |
| SB 79 | Senator Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) | Housing development: transit-oriented development |
| SB 9 | Senator Jesse Arreguín (D-Oakland) | Accessory Dwelling Units: ordinances |
California’s Leadership in Housing Reform
Governor Newsom’s administration has prioritized housing reform to address the longstanding housing and homelessness challenge in California. This involves a multi-pronged approach, including mental health support, conservatorship law updates, and the introduction of a new CARE court system.
Addressing Homelessness and Mental Health
California is making strides in mitigating homelessness with innovative solutions such as:
- Expanding behavioral health facilities and supportive housing units
- Implementing reforms focused on severe mental illnesses and substance use disorders
- Developing measures to clear dangerous encampments responsibly while providing support
Results of the Newsom Administration’s Efforts
Since Governor Newsom took office, California has curtailed the growth of unsheltered homelessness, achieving a lower rate than many other states amid national increases. Notably, the state has seen significant progress in reducing veteran and youth homelessness, with large communities reporting substantial decreases.
Through these decisive actions, California sets a precedent for addressing housing shortages and related issues with urgency and innovation. The comprehensive legislative package not only aims to provide immediate relief but also establishes a durable framework for sustainable housing development and community support.
