Senator Portantino’s Statement on SB 50

Sacramento, California – California Senate Chair on Appropriations, Senator Anthony J. Portantino’s (D–La Cañada Flintridge) statement on the decision in the Senate Appropriations Committee regarding SB 50:

“SB 50 is a well-intentioned effort to help solve our state’s housing crisis and it highlights two valid ways to affect land use decisions across the state:  providing incentives or legislating mandates.  My preference has always fallen on the side of incentives for local governments to accomplish goals.  There were legitimate concerns expressed from both large and small cities about the scope of SB 50 as it pertained to bus corridors, historic preservation, the definition of ‘jobs rich’ neighborhoods and whether it would increase gentrification and discourage light rail expansion as unintended consequences; all of which justified the pause established today by the committee.  My colleague from San Francisco is one of the smartest and most earnest legislators in the capitol.  He cares deeply about the housing crisis and I expect him to continue to pursue his goals.  Hopefully we provided the opportunity to broaden the conversation, which can result in a more targeted legislative effort.”
 

#####