The California Chamber of Commerce has responded to the Legislature’s consideration of Senate Bill 130 and Assembly Bill 131, expressing concerns about certain provisions within the proposed legislation.
In a statement issued Monday, the Chamber highlighted the importance of addressing housing construction in California’s budget process, stating: “The late insertion into this year’s California budget process of proposals to streamline more housing construction signals how vital the issue has become in addressing the state’s persistent affordability crisis.”
While acknowledging positive aspects of Senate Bill 130, the Chamber pointed out a specific mandate that could increase construction costs significantly. The statement warned that such costs might result in fewer housing units for working families, impacting those who are essential to California’s economy.
“We urge legislators and Gov. Newsom to fix that portion of SB 130, crafting a more reasonable standard for addressing the transportation impacts of new housing,” the statement continued. The Chamber emphasized the need for practical solutions to challenges posed by the existing California Environmental Quality Act.
