Golden State Today

Governor Gavin Newsom and California Attorney General Rob Bonta have announced a significant legal victory, as the San Diego Superior Court ruled that the City of Huntington Beach violated California’s Housing Element Law. The court has mandated the city to rectify its non-compliance within 120 days.

Governor Newsom emphasized the importance of local governments adhering to state law and ensuring adequate housing provisions. He said, “From day one, my administration has been clear: local governments must be accountable for following state law and planning their fair share of housing. That’s what this case has been about from the start, and we will continue to focus on accountability. We can’t solve the decades-in-the-making crisis around housing without everyone doing their part, and this result makes clear the state is serious about enforcing the law.”

Attorney General Bonta echoed these sentiments, stating that no city is above the law. He added, “Huntington Beach is not above the law — that’s the essence of today’s ruling. Local governments up and down our state should take notice. We are facing a housing crisis of epic proportions, and my office will continue to act with great urgency, working with cities and counties that genuinely want to be part of the solution and holding accountable those that do not.”

The lawsuit against Huntington Beach was filed by Governor Newsom's Administration – specifically, the Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) – along with Attorney General Bonta on March 9, 2023.

Governor Newsom has consistently advocated for increased accountability in addressing California's housing needs. To this end, he established the Housing Accountability Unit (HAU) within HCD. This unit collaborates with local entities to meet their obligations while ensuring they contribute their fair share towards housing provisions. Since its inception, HAU has facilitated the construction of over 23,000 units of housing that may otherwise not have been built.