The proposed changes set forth by AB 3351 seek to tackle the rising costs associated with the housing development permit processes and land use regulations. These costs have been identified as factors that halt or render housing projects infeasible, despite their potential public benefits. The bill emphasizes the necessity of reducing these barriers, thereby enabling local and state governments to facilitate housing developments aimed at boosting public welfare without adverse environmental impacts. Additionally, the bill stresses the importance of regulatory concessions and incentives that local governments can utilize to further diminish housing development costs.
Assembly Bill 3351, introduced by Assembly Member Bloom on February 21, 2020, aims to amend Section 65913 of the Government Code concerning affordable housing. The bill acknowledges the severe shortage of affordable housing in California, particularly for low and moderate-income individuals and families. Its primary objective is to expedite both local and state residential development processes and to ensure that local governments appropriately zone land to allow for sufficient production of affordable housing. This encompasses making necessary legislative changes to support and encourage the development of new housing units.
While AB 3351 largely aims to streamline housing development processes and encourage local government cooperation, it may face contention in terms of balancing development needs against community concerns regarding zoning and land use. Critics may argue that the legislative measures could undermine local control over land use, as they promote rapid development potentially at the expense of community interests and environmental considerations. Advocates for affordable housing, however, are likely to support the bill as a crucial step in addressing the pressing need for housing in California.