On Thursday, September 19th, Governor Gavin Newsom, alongside state and local leaders, signed critical legislation aimed at tackling California’s housing crisis. The legislation, which directly addresses homelessness and expands affordable housing, is part of a broader strategy the governor has championed to hold localities accountable for their role in resolving the state’s most pressing housing issues.
During the signing event in the Bay Area, Newsom also unveiled new statewide initiatives related to housing and mental health, signaling a continued focus on the interconnected challenges of homelessness and affordable housing.
The Housing Accountability Unit: A Force for Change
Governor Newsom emphasized the role of the state’s Housing Accountability Unit (HAU), which he launched in 2021. This unit was created to ensure cities and counties meet their legal obligations to plan and permit housing, and it has taken bold action in enforcing housing laws across California. Earlier this year, the unit’s responsibilities were expanded to include oversight of homelessness solutions, reinforcing the governor’s strategy to ensure housing development is prioritized at every level.
“California is not exempt from doing its part to address homelessness and create new housing,” said Newsom. “Whether by helping communities understand housing law or countering NIMBY attacks, we will continue holding localities accountable for building their fair share of housing and assisting individuals experiencing homelessness.”
The unit has already made significant strides, unlocking more than 7,500 housing units across the state through enforcement actions and working with local jurisdictions. These efforts include 2,765 affordable units, with 540 accountability actions to date, including four lawsuits against cities that have failed to comply with state housing laws.
A Historic High for Housing Starts
Thanks to the work of the Housing Accountability Unit, California is experiencing a 15-year high in housing starts. As Gustavo Velazquez, Director of the Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD), pointed out, “Our priority is to ensure the law is being followed and that we protect the right of people to have a home.”
The governor’s expansion of the HAU’s focus on homelessness has also seen aggressive action, including a Notice of Violation issued this week to the city of Norwalk for passing a moratorium on building homeless shelters or supportive housing. This move came just weeks after Newsom urged localities to utilize unprecedented state funding to tackle homelessness. The state’s response to Norwalk highlights the seriousness with which the administration is treating its commitment to housing all Californians, housed and unhoused alike.
Legal Victories and Local Accountability
Governor Newsom’s administration has been at the forefront of holding local jurisdictions accountable, filing lawsuits when necessary to ensure compliance with housing laws. Notable victories include legal actions against Huntington Beach and the city of Coronado, both of which initially resisted state-mandated housing requirements. In both cases, the courts ruled in favor of the state, compelling these cities to plan for thousands of new housing units.
Additionally, settlements with affluent cities like Malibu and Fullerton have ensured that these communities update their housing plans to meet their obligations under state law. “California is setting a precedent for holding all cities accountable for their role in solving the housing crisis,” added Velazquez. “If local jurisdictions try to circumvent the law, HCD will not hesitate to use all tools available, including litigation, to ensure housing is being built for Californians at all income levels.”
NIMBYism and the State’s Response
The Newsom administration has also actively countered NIMBY (Not In My Backyard) opposition to housing projects. The HAU recently intervened in Elk Grove when the city tried to block a supportive housing project, ensuring that the development proceeded. The state has also seen legal wins in Anaheim, where local opposition tried to stop a transitional housing project for homeless women with health disabilities.
Most recently, La Cañada Flintridge and Moreno Valley faced state action over efforts to block affordable housing projects. Both cities have since complied with state requirements, ensuring that affordable units are built, including a commitment from Moreno Valley to provide at least 100 affordable homes.
A Vision for California’s Future
As Secretary of the Business, Consumer Services, and Housing Agency, Tomiquia Moss, put it: “We are all Californians bound to each other as we create a California for All.” Her statement underscores the collective responsibility required to continue making progress. The state housed over 73,000 individuals experiencing homelessness last year, and this latest legislation is designed to build on that success.
Governor Newsom’s signing of this landmark legislation signals California’s ongoing commitment to solving the housing crisis, enforcing accountability, and ensuring that every resident has access to a safe and affordable place to call home. The aggressive actions taken by the Housing Accountability Unit, coupled with unprecedented state funding, continue to push the state towards a future where homelessness and housing insecurity are addressed with both compassion and urgency.
