The Digital Press

California lawmakers have passed SB 79, a bill allowing up to nine-story dense housing near transit hubs statewide by overriding local zoning laws. The bill aims to address the state's housing shortage but has sparked protests and opposition from local authorities, including the Los Angeles City Council.

Why it matters: SB 79 could unlock hundreds of thousands of new multifamily homes near transit, easing California's housing crisis.

The stakes: The bill overrides local control, facing backlash for potentially altering single-family neighborhoods and increasing developer influence.

The other side: Labor unions backed the bill after securing union hiring amendments, highlighting job creation amid community resistance.

Commenters say: Opinions are mixed; some praise the progress on housing shortages, others fear displacement, loss of local control, and favor market-driven solutions.