California Senate Passes SB79 21-13, Advancing Bill to Streamline Transit-Oriented Housing Development

Sacramento, California – The California Senate has passed Senate Bill 79 (SB79) with a 21-13 vote on June 3, 2025, a significant step towards addressing the state's severe housing shortage. Authored by Senator Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco), the bill aims to permit and streamline the construction of multi-family housing around transit stops, in some cases overriding local zoning regulations and objections. The legislation now moves to the Assembly for further consideration.

SB79 seeks to increase housing supply by establishing statewide zoning standards within a half-mile radius of major transit stops. The bill mandates specific height limits, density requirements (e.g., up to 120 dwelling units per acre near Tier 1 transit stops), and floor area ratios, which vary based on proximity to transit and the type and frequency of service. It also includes provisions for affordable housing, requiring a percentage of units to be dedicated to lower-income households, and incorporates anti-displacement and demolition standards.

Proponents, including California YIMBY and environmental advocacy groups, argue that SB79 is crucial for alleviating the housing crisis and combating climate change. Senator Wiener stated in a March press release that "building many more homes near public transit tackles the root causes of our affordability crisis while bolstering public transportation across the state." Supporters believe denser, transit-adjacent development reduces car dependence, cuts carbon emissions, and limits urban sprawl into natural habitats.

However, the bill faces strong opposition from various local groups and officials concerned about the erosion of local control. LA City Council Member Imelda Padilla has expressed opposition, and communities like Mountain View have voiced concerns about the bill overriding existing local zoning initiatives. Critics, such as former Albany City Council member Michael Barnes, argue that "too much upzoning" could lead to scattered apartment towers rather than cohesive urban density, potentially impacting historic neighborhoods.

The debate surrounding SB79 highlights the tension between statewide housing needs and local land-use autonomy. As Jon Lovett noted in a recent tweet, "California has a massive housing crisis. SB79 is a bill that will permit and streamline construction of more housing around transit stops, in some cases overriding local rules and objections." The bill's journey through the Assembly will likely involve further discussions and potential amendments before it reaches the Governor's desk.