Gov. Newsom Signs Housing Bills Aimed at ‘Original Sin’ of Affordability

In an article for the Los Angeles Times, Andrew Khouri outlines a package of bills signed by California Governor Gavin Newsom that take aim at housing affordability.

The package includes 32 bills that streamline approval processes, limit parking requirements near transit, and mandate affordable housing.  

One law, AB 2243, amends a prior law to streamline approvals for developments in more areas such as regional malls and land near freeways. “Another bill, AB 3093 from Assemblymember Chris Ward (D-San Diego), requires that local municipalities plan for housing that will be available to households making up to 15% and up to 30% of the area‘s median income.”

Another of the bills increases penalties for cities that don’t comply with state housing laws. “The money will be deposited into a state fund and used to develop income-restricted housing in that community,” Khouri adds.