Board votes to suspend collection of San Franciscoempty-homes tax pending litigation

The San Francisco Board of Supervisors voted on first reading on March 18 to suspend the voter-approved empty homes tax until a final court decision resolves pending litigation.

The ordinance, which requires a two-thirds vote, passed on first reading by a 9-2 margin, with Supervisors Walton and Fielder voting no. The measure would suspend collection and reinstate the tax so it first applies in the tax year immediately following the calendar year of a final decision in the lawsuits challenging the tax.

Supporters said suspension reduces administrative burden while litigation is unresolved; opponents warned it risks delaying revenue and undercutting a tool meant to improve housing availability. Supervisor Connie Chan, who supported the suspension, said implementing the tax now would impose heavy administrative demands on the…