Housing Accountability Act: housing development projects.
Impact
The bill seeks to enhance the effectiveness of the Housing Accountability Act by reinforcing the prohibition against local agencies disapproving housing projects that serve very low, low-, or moderate-income households without substantial evidence of specific adverse impacts. Such protections are designed to counteract the tendencies of some local governments to deny necessary housing developments, thereby aiding in the alleviation of California's housing supply crisis, which has been exacerbated by local policies limiting residential project approvals.
Summary
Senate Bill 838, introduced by Senator Durazo on February 21, 2025, aims to amend the Housing Accountability Act to address California's acute housing crisis. The bill revises the definition of a 'housing development project' to clarify that for mixed-use developments, no part of the project can be designated for use as a hotel or transient lodging if at least two-thirds of the space is designated for residential use. This change reflects an intention to increase the proportion of permanent housing in developments and address the pressing need for affordable housing across the state.
Sentiment
The legislative sentiment regarding SB 838 appears to be predominantly supportive, particularly among pro-housing advocates and organizations concerned with the homelessness crisis in California. However, there may also be opposition from local agencies and community groups who fear that the bill may undermine local governance and oversight related to land use. Discussions have indicated a focus on balancing local control with the urgent need for greater housing development across various income levels to combat ongoing affordability and accessibility challenges.
Contention
Key points of contention surrounding SB 838 revolve around its potential to limit local agencies' authority to regulate land use in a way that is, according to critics, necessary for managing local conditions and community needs. Proponents argue that the necessity of addressing the housing crisis supersedes these concerns, as the existing framework has not sufficiently alleviated the dramatic shortage of affordable housing in California. Additionally, some lawmakers express concerns about the implications of defining and restricting 'transient lodging' in mixed-use developments.