Golden State Today

California Attorney General Rob Bonta, Governor Gavin Newsom, and California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) Director Gustavo Velasquez have responded to a recent court decision regarding the City of Norwalk. The Los Angeles County Superior Court denied Norwalk's attempt to dismiss a state lawsuit concerning the city's ban on certain types of housing.

Attorney General Bonta stated, "We are pleased to proceed with our case and to protect the public’s interest in the rule of law. Norwalk’s ban on new housing for unhoused individuals and lower-income households at risk of homelessness is illegal." He emphasized the importance of addressing affordability issues and holding the city accountable.

Governor Newsom added, "No community should turn its back on its residents in need. We will continue to hold Norwalk accountable for its failure to reverse this cruel and unlawful ban."

HCD Director Velasquez commented, "Far from being a threat, availability of safe shelter and supportive services brings stability and makes communities stronger. We will continue to fight to hold Norwalk and all others accountable for planning for the housing needs of residents at all income levels."

The lawsuit, filed on November 4, 2024, alleges that Norwalk has violated several laws including California’s urgency ordinance statute, the Housing Crisis Act, the Housing Element Law, the Anti-Discrimination in Land Use Law, the Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing Law, and by-right laws for supportive housing and emergency shelters.

A copy of the court's tentative decision was adopted as the final ruling during yesterday's hearing.