The 2026 California gubernatorial contest features four prominent Democratic candidates, each presenting credible pro-housing platforms. These contenders are actively competing to establish themselves as the leading advocate for housing abundance, a central issue amidst the state’s persistent affordability crisis, according to a recent analysis by California YIMBY.
New housing construction in the US is increasingly out of reach for first-time buyers, as homes grow larger and more expensive, with the shift toward larger homes reducing the number of entry-level homes and limiting homeownership to older, higher-income buyers.
Democratic candidates for governor of California discussed their plans for addressing the state’s housing crisis at a forum hosted by California YIMBY, offering a mix of regulatory reform, financing innovation, rent stabilization and state enforcement as potential solutions.
Assemblymember Buffy Wicks convened the first hearing of the California Assembly’s new Select Committee on Housing Construction Innovation to explore ways to reduce housing costs by modernizing how homes are built across the state.
California’s new law, SB 79, is designed to ease the housing shortage by allowing taller apartment buildings near major transit stops, but some counties are exempt and it will take time for the first projects to be completed.
Despite the passage of dozens of new laws, California’s housing crisis remains far from solved, but the foundation for a new housing era has been laid and progress is being made through small projects and a shift in the political culture to favor building rather than blocking.
Governor Gavin Newsom has signed multiple bills aimed at accelerating construction and improving affordability, including Senate Bill 79, which fast-tracks housing near major transit systems, in a historic year for housing reform in California.
Governor Gavin Newsom has signed Senate Bill 79, which cuts red tape, holds local governments accountable, and expands access to affordable housing near public transportation stops, in order to reduce costs, strengthen transit systems, and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
The YIMBY movement has shifted the narrative in California’s housing debate, pushing for more housing construction and resulting in the passage of SB 79, which allows for taller, denser buildings near major bus stops and transit lines.
Senate Bill 79, authored by Senator Scott Wiener, has passed the California Legislature and is now headed to Governor Gavin Newsom’s desk, and aims to expand access to affordable housing by legalizing midrise, multifamily housing near major transit stops while protecting rent-stabilized apartments.
California lawmakers passed two landmark housing bills, SB 79 and CEQA reform, to address the state’s housing crisis, but their impact remains to be seen due to structural realities and local political resistance.
The California State Senate passed the Abundant & Affordable Homes Near Transit Act, which will allow more homes to be built near major public transportation stops and on land owned by transit agencies, in an effort to address the state’s affordability crisis.
California YIMBY and labor unions have agreed to amendments to SB 79 that require strong labor standards for new homes built under the bill, securing support from UNITE HERE and a neutral position from the State Building and Construction Trades Union.
Greenbelt Alliance is supporting Senate Bill 79, the Abundant and Affordable Homes Near Transit Act, which would make it easier and faster to build new homes near major transit stops, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and create a more affordable and resilient California.
New housing construction can help slow rent growth and reduce rent burdens for low-income families, while blocking construction can worsen rent burdens and increase displacement.
Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee has endorsed Senate Bill 79, legislation that would legalize multifamily housing near major transit stops across California, in order to address the Bay Area’s escalating housing crisis, expand affordability, and advance California’s climate goals.
The Los Angeles City Council narrowly voted to oppose SB 79, a state housing bill that would allow mid-rise apartments near major transit stops with affordable units, drawing criticism from housing advocates and pro-housing groups who argue the city is prioritizing wealthy elites over working-class Angelenos.
SB 79, authored by Sen. Scott Wiener, would require cities to allow more housing near transit stops, including mid-rise apartments within a half-mile of rail stations and frequent bus lines, in order to lower housing costs and align state transit investments with affordable housing.
California is facing a housing crisis due to local regulations that undermine state efforts to increase housing supply, such as inclusionary zoning and development impact fees, which act as a hidden tax on housing construction and slow production.
SB 79, a bill aimed at allowing multifamily housing near public transit stops, was passed by the Assembly Local Government Committee and now awaits consideration by the Assembly Appropriations Committee.