Golden State Today

California Attorney General Rob Bonta and Governor Gavin Newsom have responded to a recent legal decision regarding Huntington Beach's challenge to state housing laws. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit has upheld a district court's dismissal of the city's federal lawsuit, which questioned the constitutionality of these laws.

Attorney General Bonta expressed satisfaction with the ruling, stating, "I am pleased that yet another court has emphatically rejected Huntington Beach’s attempt to exempt itself from state housing laws." He criticized the city for spending public resources on what he termed a "meritless lawsuit" while urging them to develop a housing plan promptly. Bonta also mentioned ongoing legal actions against Huntington Beach at the state level.

Governor Newsom echoed similar sentiments, describing the court's decision as a rebuke to Huntington Beach's efforts. He remarked, "Today, yet another court has slapped down Huntington Beach’s cynical attempt to prevent the state from enforcing our housing laws." Newsom accused city officials of pursuing unlawful policies and emphasized that all cities must comply with state regulations to address housing needs.

The decision marks another chapter in California's efforts to enforce its housing policies across municipalities. Both state leaders underscored the importance of adhering to these laws for the benefit of residents struggling with housing issues.