California Assembly moves forward with AB 13 o 8 to streamline housing inspections

The Assembly Local Government Committee of the California State Assembly convened on April 23, 2025, to discuss key legislative proposals aimed at addressing the state's ongoing housing crisis. The meeting focused primarily on two bills: AB 1308 and AB 1445.

The first item on the agenda was AB 1308, which seeks to streamline the inspection process for residential projects containing one to ten units that are less than 40 feet tall. The bill allows applicants to engage licensed third-party inspectors if local building departments do not conduct inspections within 30 days. Proponents argue that this measure is essential to alleviate significant delays in the housing production pipeline, which have been cited as a major barrier to meeting California's housing needs. Nolan Gray, a representative from California YIMBY, emphasized that the average time from proposal to completion for housing projects in California is approximately 49 months, significantly longer than in states like Texas and Colorado. He noted that these delays not only increase costs but also hinder the availability of housing, particularly when completed units remain unoccupied due to pending inspections.

Daniel Freeman, a partner at a law firm representing home builders, echoed these concerns, highlighting the financial implications of inspection delays on small-scale developers. He argued that allowing certified private inspectors could expedite the process without compromising safety. The committee heard no opposition to the bill, and after a brief discussion regarding potential cost disparities for low-income applicants, the committee voted unanimously in favor of AB 1308, sending it to the Housing and Community Development Committee for further consideration.

The second item discussed was AB 1445, which aims to facilitate the creation of affordable mixed-use housing in downtown areas by providing financing tools for local governments. Currently, only San Francisco has the authority to establish such districts, but this bill seeks to expand that capability statewide. Amelia Zamani from the California Travel Association supported the bill, citing the importance of revitalizing downtowns to boost the economy and create jobs. She noted that the travel industry, which significantly contributes to California's economy, is facing challenges that necessitate innovative solutions for urban recovery.

The committee received additional support from representatives of the California Downtown Association and Circulate San Diego, both of whom emphasized the potential benefits of AB 1445 for enhancing urban vibrancy and economic resilience. With no opposition voiced, the committee moved forward with a favorable recommendation for AB 1445.

In conclusion, the Assembly Local Government Committee's meeting underscored the urgency of legislative action to address California's housing crisis. Both AB 1308 and AB 1445 represent strategic efforts to streamline processes and enhance urban development, reflecting a bipartisan commitment to improving housing availability and economic vitality in the state. The committee's decisions will now proceed to the next legislative steps, with hopes for swift implementation.