Habitat for Humanity California hails signing of affordable housing bills

The housing bills signed by Gov. Jerry Brown will put a down payment on restoring the state’s commitment to taking on the affordable housing crisis, Habitat for Humanity California said today. More than 40 local Habitat organizations across California supported the passage of the bills, particularly SB 2, SB 3 and SB 35, which will create new sources of revenue and streamline approval processes for affordable housing across the state.

“We applaud Gov. Brown and leaders in the legislature for taking on this affordable housing challenge with this meaningful first step,” said Sharon Ellis, the chair of Habitat for Humanity California. “But by no means is the work done. While our leaders made an important down payment on affordable housing today, it’s time for the monthly payments to show they are up to the long-term challenge.”

SB 2 creates a small fee on real estate transactions, except on home sales, to be used for affordable housing. SB 3 puts a measure on next November’s ballot, which if passed by the voters will raise $4 billion for affordable housing and veterans. SB 35 streamlines approval processes for affordable housing projects around the state, which will help reduce the costs of development. The three bills were part of a large package of legislation the governor signed today.

Habitat for Humanity California engaged as part of a broad coalition of affordable housing advocates to support passage of the bills. Habitat will now begin advocating passage of the $4 billion bond measure next year.

About Habitat for Humanity California

Habitat for Humanity California is a statewide coalition of more than 40 independent Habitat affiliates that serve communities across California. The coalition works in unison to advocate for affordable homeownership opportunities for families with limited-incomes and in almost all cases helping families make the transition from multi-generational renting to ownership. Habitat for Humanity California accomplishes its goals by providing tools and resources to Habitat affiliates that serve specific geographical areas to educate and advocate to their local legislators and communities. Habitat for Humanity California also works with housing advocates throughout the state to advocate for the increased the supply of housing at every level of the housing continuum – emergency shelter, supportive housing, rental, and homeownership. To learn more, visit habitatca.org.