
10/04/2025
SB79 Still Waiting for Signature or Veto
SB 79, Senator Scott Wiener’s housing density bill, remains on Governor Newsom’s desk with an October 12 deadline for action. The bill would override local zoning by allowing taller residential buildings near transit stops—up to nine stories at subway stations, seven within a quarter mile, and six within a half mile.
But SB 79 is complex, full of carve-outs and exemptions added to secure votes. A controversial exemption reduces its reach in small cities like Beverly Hills and South Pasadena, frustrating Los Angeles officials who say their neighborhoods will bear the brunt.
See photo 2 which is a screenshot of a map that shows how SB79 would be applied in Beverly Hills versus LA at the La Cienega Metro station.. The dark circle indicates the 1/4 mile radius, and the lighter circle is the 1/2 mile radius that applies to LA neighborhoods.
LA Councilmember Katy Yaroslavsky and Mayor Karen Bass both oppose the bill, arguing it undermines local planning and could harm vulnerable communities. Bass has formally urged Newsom to veto. Meanwhile, supporters such as California YIMBY are urging the Governor to sign, concerned about the fate of the bill which barely passed the Legislature.
Critics say California needs better financing and incentives for small property owners, not just free-for-all zoning changes that don’t let cities plan housing density.
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