California lawmakers have approved Senate Bill 79, a significant housing measure that overrides local zoning laws to permit taller, denser apartment buildings near major transit stops. The bill, authored by Senator Scott Wiener (D–San Francisco), allows residential buildings up to seven stories within a quarter mile of rail or subway stations and six stories within a half mile. This legislation aims to address the state’s housing shortage and support public transit by encouraging development near transit hubs.
Despite its passage, the bill faced strong opposition from local governments and some legislators. The Los Angeles City Council voted 8–5 to oppose SB 79, citing concerns about infrastructure limits and high fire danger zones. Councilmember Traci Park warned that the bill would undermine years of local planning and force density in unsafe areas. Neighborhood groups, particularly in fire-prone areas like Pacific Palisades, also raised alarms about potential risks.
The bill passed the Senate by a narrow margin after Senator Shannon Grove (R-Bakersfield) cast the deciding vote. The Assembly approved it 43–37. According to CalMatters, Wiener stated, “Decades of overly restrictive policies have driven housing costs to astronomical levels.” He believes the bill is a step forward to reduce costs and traffic congestion.
Westside Current reported that the bill now heads to Governor Gavin Newsom, who is expected to sign it. However, Los Angeles leaders remain concerned about the implications for local safety and planning.
The bill includes provisions for unionized construction workers and mandates that a portion of new housing be set aside for lower-income residents. It also allows transit agencies to develop their own land, providing a potential revenue source. Despite opposition, supporters argue that the bill is necessary to address California’s housing crisis and improve public transit systems.
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