Affordable Housing and High Road Jobs Act of 2022.
The bill introduces significant changes to the planning and zoning laws, particularly regarding local government authority over development approvals. It mandates that developers meet wage and labor standards, requiring all construction contracts to comply with prevailing wage laws and to engage contractors that participate in apprenticeship programs. This aims to enhance job quality and ensure fair compensation in the construction industry, contributing to the bill's overarching goal of fostering both housing and high-road jobs. These stipulations, however, impose new responsibilities on local governments and developers alike.
Assembly Bill No. 2011, known as the Affordable Housing and High Road Jobs Act of 2022, aims to address California's housing crisis by facilitating the development of affordable housing. The bill allows for a streamlined, ministerial approval process for multifamily housing developments that meet specific objective planning standards and are sited in areas where office, retail, or parking uses are primarily permitted. Notably, this legislation grants developers certain 'use by right' status, which enables quicker project approvals without the need for conditional use permits, thereby expediting the housing development process.
The sentiment surrounding AB 2011 is largely supportive from housing advocates and some segments of the legislature, who view it as a proactive measure to alleviate housing shortages in California. Proponents argue that by simplifying the approval process and ensuring proper compensation for labor, the bill will not only encourage the construction of more accessible housing but will also uphold worker standards. Conversely, there are concerns from some local government associations and community groups about potential overreach and the erosion of local control, fearing that the bill may undermine their ability to tailor developments to fit local needs.
Notable points of contention include the balance of state versus local authority in housing matters. While the bill is designed to increase the rate of housing development, opponents argue that it could lead to one-size-fits-all solutions that ignore the unique character and requirements of specific communities. Additionally, the requirement for compliance with prevailing wage laws may complicate budgeting for some developers, potentially deterring smaller projects or developments in less economically advantageous areas. The bill is set to be repealed on January 1, 2033, which sparks debate about its long-term effectiveness and the need for sustainable housing strategies.