SACRAMENTO – In a continued effort to address California’s homelessness crisis, Governor Gavin Newsom has signed into law two pivotal bills aimed at expanding housing options and providing greater stability for the state’s vulnerable populations. The new legislation—AB 2835 (Gabriel) and AB 3057 (Wilson)—focuses on increasing the availability of emergency shelter beds and streamlining the construction of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) across the state.
“These laws represent a crucial step in our fight against homelessness,” said Governor Newsom. “We need immediate and innovative action, not the status quo. With these new tools, local governments can make significant strides in providing housing for those who need it most.”
AB 2835, authored by Assembly member Jesse Gabriel, plays a vital role in addressing the immediate needs of homeless individuals by removing the sunset date on tenancy rules. These rules have enabled service providers to place people experiencing homelessness into privately owned hotels and motels for extended periods, enhancing stability for those in need. This approach has been a cornerstone of the state’s efforts to combat homelessness, particularly in urban areas where the demand for shelter far exceeds the supply.
Local governments across California have successfully utilized hotels and motels to provide temporary housing, a strategy that has been bolstered by Governor Newsom’s comprehensive housing programs. Since 2019, the state has invested over $27 billion in supporting local governments to provide services and housing to prevent and end homelessness. This includes substantial investments in the Homekey program, Encampment Resolution Funding, and the Homelessness Housing Assistance Program.
“We need solutions that are both compassionate and effective,” Assemblymember Gabriel said. “AB 2835 delivers on both fronts by providing stability to families and individuals experiencing homelessness while also cutting through bureaucratic red tape.”
In addition to expanding shelter options, the new laws also address the chronic shortage of affordable housing in California. AB 3057, authored by Assemblymember Lori Wilson, seeks to streamline the process for building Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADUs). These units offer an innovative and cost-effective solution to the housing crisis by allowing homeowners to create additional living spaces on their property. The bill extends the current exemptions from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) that apply to standard ADUs, making it easier and quicker to build JADUs.
The lack of affordable housing is a primary driver of homelessness in California, with many individuals becoming homeless due to economic hardships like rising rent and housing costs. By expanding the housing inventory, the state aims to provide more affordable living options and reduce the number of people who fall into homelessness.
“AB 3057 is a significant step forward in our efforts to address the housing shortage,” said Assemblywoman Wilson. “This bill makes it easier for families to create affordable living spaces, helping to keep communities together and strengthening the social fabric of our state.”
Governor Newsom’s latest legislative actions are part of a broader strategy to tackle homelessness and the housing crisis in California. Since taking office, he has directed over $40 billion toward boosting affordable housing and more than $27 billion toward addressing homelessness. His administration has also implemented numerous CEQA reforms and established the Housing Accountability Unit to ensure local governments meet their housing obligations.
The Governor’s efforts have already yielded results, with housing starts in California reaching a 15-year high. These new laws are expected to further accelerate progress by providing local governments and housing providers with the tools they need to create more housing and shelter options.
As California continues to grapple with one of the nation’s most severe homelessness crises, these new laws represent a critical step toward providing the stability and security that all Californians deserve.
