Assemblymember Buffy Wicks (D-14) has announced her endorsement of the Building an Affordable California Act, a ballot measure aimed at streamlining project approval and permitting processes for essential infrastructure in the state. The announcement was made during her keynote speech at Capitol Weekly’s Conference on Housing.
Wicks, who previously chaired the Assembly Housing Committee, is recognized for her work on housing supply and affordability issues in California. In her remarks, she stated: “I support the Chamber’s ballot measure. We have to build for the modern era, and I think we can do so in a way that still respects our environmental values.”
The proposed Building an Affordable California Act seeks to address delays in building projects such as housing, water systems, clean energy facilities, transportation infrastructure, hospitals, schools, broadband expansion, and wildfire prevention efforts. The measure aims to establish clearer timelines and improve accountability while maintaining protections for the environment, labor rights, and tribal cultural resources.
A coalition of organizations supports this initiative. These include affordable housing advocates, civil rights groups like CA/HI State Conference NAACP and National Diversity Coalition; clean energy advocates such as American Clean Power California; agricultural groups like Agricultural Council of California; health care providers; water associations; business organizations including Leading Builders of America and Associated General Contractors of California; as well as industry groups like Large-Scale Solar Association.
The California Chamber of Commerce is among the backers of this campaign. According to its official website, the organization serves employers throughout California by providing statewide representation and advocating for policies that foster job creation and economic growth. The Chamber also offers compliance resources and legal updates to member businesses across the state.
Jennifer Barrera currently serves as president and chief executive officer of the California Chamber of Commerce. Over time, the Chamber has influenced significant legislation through its Job Killer and Job Creator lists.
For more information about the measure or its supporters, visit BuildAffordableCA.com.
