Overview

• Governor Gavin Newsom has formally endorsed AB 609 and SB 607, two bills aimed at exempting urban infill housing projects from CEQA review to expedite construction.
• The governor incorporated language supporting these CEQA exemptions into his updated state budget proposal, signaling a stronger push for housing reform.
• Assembly Bill 609, authored by Buffy Wicks, has cleared the Assembly with backing from Speaker Robert Rivas, while Scott Wiener’s SB 607 faces challenges in the Senate.
• Proposed legislative text from Newsom includes redirecting environmental impact fees toward affordable housing near public transit, aligning with broader housing affordability goals.
• Critics argue CEQA delays urban housing projects, while supporters of the law defend its role in environmental oversight, highlighting the contentious nature of the proposed reforms.