SB 79 passes, landmark victory for California YIMBYs
a day ago
- #legislation
- #housing
- #California
- Senator Scott Wiener passed SB 79, allowing mid-rise housing near transit stops after overcoming legislative hurdles.
- Wiener employed strategic maneuvers, including bypassing committee chairs and negotiating amendments, to secure the bill's passage.
- The bill faced opposition from lawmakers concerned about state interference in local land-use and insufficient affordable housing provisions.
- SB 79 narrowly passed both the Senate and Assembly, relying on last-minute vote changes and amendments to appease critics.
- Amendments included union labor requirements for tall buildings, protections for low-income neighborhoods, and limiting the bill's scope to certain counties.
- YIMBY supporters view the bill as a significant pro-housing shift, while critics argue it was diluted by compromises.
- The bill's practical impact on housing supply is uncertain due to rising construction costs and interest rates.
- SB 79 is seen as a symbolic victory for dense housing near transit, shifting perceptions in the Legislature.