Legislation

Substantially broadens the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) consultation process with California Native American tribes. However, it does so in a way that could create an indefinite CEQA review cycle, leaving projects without certainty—even after environmental documents are certified and all necessary permits have been approved. Moreover, AB 52 could require projects to be permanently halted even after construction has begun. This approach overlooks the comprehensive tribal consultation process already built into the early stages of project planning, which is specifically designed to surface and address these critical issues upfront—helping to prevent delays and ensure timely delivery of much-needed housing for California families.

Poses a significant barrier to the development of new rental housing by making California’s existing rent control laws even more restrictive. AB 1157, among other provisions, extends rent control to single-family homes and condominiums owned by individuals and families—many of whom are already struggling with rising costs for maintenance, insurance, and utilities. In a market already challenged by high interest rates, tariffs, and soaring construction costs, this bill further discourages both private and institutional investment, ultimately leading to fewer homes being built for California’s families.

Exacerbates California’s housing crisis by imposing burdensome new water quality regulations on housing projects and introducing a broad private right of action that would allow anyone to sue homebuilders—potentially recovering attorney’s fees and triggering significantly higher penalties. While proponents argue that SB 601 is needed in response to a U.S. Supreme Court decision limiting federal regulations, the bill as written goes far beyond what federal law previously required. Moreover, SB 601 eliminates a critical safeguard that requires regional water boards and the State Water Resources Control Board to consider economic impacts, housing needs, recycled water use, and feasibility when issuing discharge requirements or permits. This safeguard was originally enacted to ensure housing considerations were integrated into water regulation decisions.                                                                 

Grants the Department of Toxic Substances Control unchecked authority to determine which building products can be used in housing construction, imposing sweeping and arbitrary restrictions that would severely disrupt homebuilding across California. By banning essential materials – from heat pumps to electrical cabling – SB 682 drives up housing costs, jeopardizes safety, and further exacerbates the state’s housing crisis.

Adds residential housing to the state’s Anti-Trust Law, Unfair Business Practices law, and Unfair Competition Law. It would expand the scope of residential housing regulations in the state and create more barriers to investments in home construction, ultimately impacting housing affordability for residents. Additionally, the bill may also limit competition during California’s ongoing housing crisis, further reducing choices for consumers.

Requires contractors and subcontractors contracting with a state agency to certify that the wood used in their projects is not sourced from certain regions. It is in direct opposition to the rigorous sustainable practices and certification standards that North America currently upholds. Developing a redundant program will disrupt lumber supply to California during an existing housing shortage increasing the cost of housing and waste the state’s already limited resources.

Creates a sweeping and complex new regulatory program at the Department of Toxic Substances Control to regulate all commercial and consumer products that may contain perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances. This incredibly far-reaching bill could potentially outlaw essential building products such as heat pumps and electrical wiring that have been mandated by the state of California to help achieve climate and energy objectives and are crucial in creating safe, affordable, and sustainable low-carbon homes. This measure could have a significant impact on California’s green housing market and the ability to meet important environmental goals.