If passed, AB 1353 would clarify the naming convention of the State Housing Law, effectively ensuring that all relevant statutory references remain consistent and recognized under California law. This bill plays an integral role in maintaining a uniform construction and occupancy code across the state, which is essential for local building departments responsible for enforcement. The standardization serves to enhance public safety by ensuring that all constructed housing meets required regulatory standards.
Summary
Assembly Bill 1353, introduced by Assembly Member Quirk-Silva, aims to amend Section 17910 of the Health and Safety Code with respect to housing legislation in California. The main objective of the bill is to reinforce the framework established by the State Housing Law, which sets forth statewide construction and occupancy standards for buildings utilized for human habitation. The bill is fundamentally designed to make nonsubstantive alterations to the existing statutes without changing their intended meaning or effect.
Contention
While the bill primarily focuses on nonsubstantive changes, it could raise discussions regarding the control that local governments have over housing regulations. Some stakeholders might express concerns that even minor amendments can set precedents for future alterations in authority, potentially limiting local flexibility to address unique community housing needs. Operationalizing the enforcement of state-level standards could lead to scrutiny about how effectively they accommodate diverse local housing conditions.