In a recent move to address the critical housing shortage in California, the Senate Housing Committee has pushed forward Senator Scott Wiener's SB 79, which seeks to increase the number of homes near public transit, while another housing proposal, SB 677, fell short of advancing. The passed bill, SB 79, enables the construction of multi-family homes up to seven stories high in proximity to major transit stops, a strategic legislative effort to combat the soaring cost of living by situating housing within reach of public transportation, while the unsuccessful SB 677 aimed to bolster streamlining laws for housing development, as per a statement released by Senator Wiener's office.
Senator Wiener expressed gratitude for the committee's support of SB 79, which passed with a 6-2 vote, yet showed disappointment over SB 677's failure to launch, with the committee voting 4-3 against the proposal, this mix of outcomes reveals the hurdles the state faces in its push to fundamentally rewrite California's approach to housing, an area where, despite consistent efforts and incremental victories, the pace of change is often mired by opposition and procedural roadblocks, the committee's decision showcases the contrast between the embrace of a forward-thinking stance on transit-oriented development and the reticence to endorse more aggressive measures to streamline housing laws fully. Wiener said, "Today's votes show the challenges that continue to plague California's efforts to address the housing shortage, even as we continue to make real progress," signaling ongoing battles between proponents of rapid housing reform and those adhering to a status quo that fails to address the crisis adequately, as cited by Senator Wiener's office.
SB 79, which now heads to the Senate Local Government Committee, proposes state zoning standards around transit stations and major bus stops to accommodate housing projects with varying degrees of density and height, seeking to streamline approvals if they meet certain eligibility requirements under existing pathways, and allowing local transit agencies to develop land they own at higher densities. This aligns with successful models in other regions where transit-oriented development has helped sustain and support public transit systems financially, and could provide California with a similar benefit, in addition to the crucial aim of making housing more attainable and affordable.
The legislative success of SB 79 was supported by a diverse coalition including Streets for All, California YIMBY, Greenbelt Alliance, SPUR, and the Bay Area Council. It was backed by elected officials such as Congressman Ro Khanna and Mayor of Campbell Sergio Lopez.
