California Assembly Bill AB1232

California 2019-2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/21/19
• Refer: 3/25/19
• Report Pass: 3/26/19
• Refer: 3/27/19
• Report Pass: 4/11/19
• Refer: 4/22/19
• Report Pass: 4/24/19
• Refer: 4/29/19
• Refer: 5/8/19
• Report Pass: 5/16/19
• Engrossed: 5/23/19
• Refer: 5/24/19
• Refer: 6/6/19
• Report Pass: 6/11/19
• Refer: 6/11/19
• Report Pass: 6/28/19
• Refer: 6/28/19
• Report Pass: 7/10/19
• Refer: 7/11/19
• Refer: 8/12/19
• Report Pass: 8/30/19
• Enrolled: 9/9/19
• Chaptered: 10/11/19
• Passed: 10/11/19

Caption

Affordable housing: weatherization.

Impact

The bill significantly impacts state laws by facilitating a structured approach to funding and improving energy efficiency specifically targeting low-income multifamily residences. It requires that any improvements made through the program not only enhance energy efficiency but also provide health benefits, especially in addressing problems like indoor air quality and respiratory issues. Furthermore, it allows for multiyear commitments of funding, enabling more extensive planning and implementation.

Summary

Assembly Bill 1232, also known as the Affordable Housing: Weatherization bill, focuses on improving energy efficiency in low-income housing through a weatherization program. The bill mandates that the Department of Community Services and Development collaborates with both the California Energy Commission and the Office of Health Equity under the State Department of Public Health. This collaboration aims to identify effective strategies and funding mechanisms that can benefit disadvantaged communities, while also creating an actionable plan to enhance energy upgrades in these areas.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding AB 1232 appears supportive, particularly from advocates of affordable housing and public health. However, there may be concerns from stakeholders about the specifics of funding and implementation strategies. Overall, supporters see the bill as aligning with the state's goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while ensuring that low-income tenants can benefit from enhanced living conditions without facing increased rates of displacement or eviction.

Contention

One notable point of contention is the requirement for maintaining the affordability of the housing units involved in the weatherization program. Though the bill aims to provide resources and benefits, there are concerns about possible increases in rent or tenant relocation as a result of the upgrades. The assessment mandated within the bill is designed to track these impacts and ensure that funding and improvements do not unintentionally harm the very communities they intend to help.