California Assembly advances ACA 4 to secure affordable housing funding

The California Assembly Housing and Community Development Committee convened on April 30, 2025, to discuss a pivotal measure aimed at addressing the state's ongoing housing crisis. The proposed Assembly Constitutional Amendment (ACA) 4, known as the Housing Opportunities for Everyone Act, seeks to secure a minimum of 5% of the state's general fund for affordable housing initiatives over the next decade.

Assemblymember Corey Jackson, the bill's author, emphasized the urgency of the housing situation, stating that housing availability and affordability are among the most pressing issues for Californians. He asserted that housing is a human right and called for immediate action to ensure that all residents have access to stable and affordable homes. Jackson urged the committee to move forward with the ACA, highlighting the need for a long-term solution to the crisis.

Supporters of the ACA, including representatives from EAH Housing and AG Global Solutions, shared personal stories illustrating the profound impact of housing instability. Eric Vasquez from EAH Housing noted that the organization has been a trusted affordable housing developer for nearly six decades, serving approximately 25,000 residents across California and Hawaii. He argued that the ACA would provide essential funding to unlock thousands of new housing units, thereby addressing the urgent need for affordable options.

Mimi Khalili from AG Global Solutions shared her own experiences with poverty and housing insecurity, stressing that the lack of affordable housing affects not only individuals but also the broader economy. She pointed out that California currently allocates less than half of 1% of its budget to affordable housing, leaving a significant funding gap that impacts over a million low-income households. Khalili argued that investing in affordable housing would lead to better health outcomes, improved educational performance, and reduced reliance on public services.

The committee members expressed their support for the ACA, recognizing the critical need for increased funding for housing. Some lawmakers shared their personal experiences with housing challenges, reinforcing the bill's relevance to many Californians. However, concerns were raised about the feasibility of committing 5% of the general fund to housing in perpetuity, with some members advocating for a more flexible approach to budget allocations.

In conclusion, the committee's discussions underscored the urgent need for a comprehensive strategy to tackle California's housing crisis. The ACA 4 represents a significant step toward ensuring that all residents have access to affordable housing, with the potential to create lasting positive impacts on communities across the state. As the bill moves forward, it will be crucial for lawmakers to balance funding commitments with the broader needs of California's budget and its residents.