California SB 79, "Abundant & Affordable Homes Near Transit Act," Heads to Governor Newsom's Desk After Legislative Passage

Sacramento, California – California's landmark housing legislation, Senate Bill 79 (SB 79), also known as the "Abundant & Affordable Homes Near Transit Act," has successfully passed both chambers of the state legislature and is now awaiting Governor Gavin Newsom's signature. The bill, authored by Senator Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco), aims to significantly increase housing density near public transportation hubs across the state.

The legislation garnered strong support from housing advocates, including California YIMBY, who were instrumental in mobilizing for its passage. YIMBY Democrats for America lauded the effort, stating in a recent tweet, "> All glory to our YIMBY 🐐@Scott_Wiener, and big ups to folks like @cayimby who mobilized like crazy!" The bill is designed to address California's severe housing shortage and high cost of living by overriding local zoning restrictions to allow for more multi-family housing near train stations and major bus lines.

SB 79 establishes state zoning standards that permit mid-rise homes within a half-mile radius of major transit stops, with varying height limits based on proximity and transit frequency. For instance, areas immediately adjacent to Tier 1 heavy rail stops could see buildings up to nine stories. The bill also empowers local transit agencies to develop housing on their own land, aiming to provide financial support for public transit systems.

The bill's journey through the legislature was marked by debate and amendments, particularly concerning local control and labor standards. Initial opposition from some local governments and labor unions was mitigated through negotiations, leading to provisions for unionized construction workers in certain projects and safeguards for affordability and displacement. Senator Wiener emphasized that the bill represents a "dramatic step forward to undo these decades of harm, reduce our most severe costs, and slash traffic congestion and air pollution in our state."

The YIMBY Democrats for America also acknowledged the contributions of political commentator Jon Lovett and former Stockton Mayor Michael Tubbs, tweeting, "> We also want to personally thank @jonlovett for hosting a crucial debate about SB79 and @MichaelDTubbs for testifying — and thank you to BOTH for joining us on Radio Abundance!" Lovett, known for his political commentary and podcast "Pod Save America," and Tubbs, a prominent advocate for economic opportunity and social justice, engaged in discussions surrounding the bill's implications. "Radio Abundance" is a podcast hosted by California YIMBY CEO Brian Hanlon and policy director Matthew Lewis, focusing on housing policy and urban development.