The proposed legislation addresses the state's housing deficit, which is approaching 4 million homes
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California State Sen. Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) has introduced amendments to a bill that would allow for more housing near public transportation to set broad affordability requirements, among other changes.
Wiener first introduced the bill, SB 827, in January as part of a legislative package that seeks to create more housing in California. According to Wiener, the state’s housing deficit is approaching 4 million homes. He said the shortage is threatening the state’s diversity, economy, environment, and quality of life.
Under the amendments, affordable-housing requirements will be set for cities that don’t have local affordability requirements. Additionally, the amendments refine the definition of transit corridors to focus on high-quality, all-day bus service and not just rush-hour service. The amendments also delay implementation of the bill in order to give local communities time to plan and enact their own requirements for denser development near public transit.
“SB 827 is about creating more opportunities for housing where we need it – near public transportation,” Wiener said. “This bill has triggered a robust and passionate discussion about housing in California, and I appreciate all the feedback we’ve received, including from critics who have engaged thoughtfully on the bill. We have worked with both supporters and opponents on these amendments, and we will continue to work with anyone committed to solving our housing shortage as we move through the legislative process. We will bring more housing to our state if we work collectively on solutions.”
SB 827 is slated to be heard in the Senate Transportation and Housing Committee on April 17. If passed, the bill will take effect Jan. 1, 2021.
