California Assembly Passes Bill Allowing Up to Six-Story Buildings Near Transit Hubs

Sacramento, California – The California State Assembly has passed Senate Bill 79 (SB 79), a controversial housing bill that aims to significantly increase housing density near public transit corridors across the state. The legislation, championed by Senator Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) and housing advocacy group California YIMBY, seeks to address California's severe housing shortage and affordability crisis by overriding local zoning laws.

SB 79 paves the way for taller, denser housing developments within a half-mile radius of major transit stops, including bus rapid transit lines and train stations. Depending on the proximity and type of transit, the bill could permit buildings up to nine stories tall, with six-story structures allowed within a half-mile of many transit stops, even in areas previously zoned for single-family homes. The bill includes provisions for minimum density standards and height limits, aiming to streamline the approval process for such projects.

Proponents, like California YIMBY, argue that these drastic measures are essential to create more affordable housing, reduce commutes, and promote environmental sustainability. "Thank you to Assemblymembers @AsmAnamarie, @JuanCarrillo4CA, @alex_lee, @QuirkSilvaCA, @Patterdude, @JoshHooverCA, @BuffyWicks, @DavidTangipa, and @MattHaneySF for speaking in support of SB 79!" stated California YIMBY on social media, highlighting the broad legislative backing. Nolan Gray, Senior Director of Legislation and Research at California YIMBY, emphasized that the state's housing crisis necessitates bold action, stating, "California has overregulated the housing market for decades and now we have a significant shortage."

However, the bill has faced strong opposition from local governments and neighborhood preservation groups who view it as an overreach that strips communities of local control. Critics, such as former Torrance City Councilmember Mike Griffiths, express concerns about the irreversible alteration of single-family neighborhoods, increased traffic, and inadequate parking. He argued that the bill could lead to "extreme densification" without community input, potentially changing the character of residential areas.

A significant development boosting the bill's chances was the State Building and Construction Trades Council reversing its opposition. The powerful labor group agreed to support SB 79 after amendments were added, requiring union hiring for certain projects, particularly those over 85 feet tall. This deal has provided crucial momentum as the bill now awaits a final Senate concurrence vote and Governor Gavin Newsom's signature to become law.