California Senate adopts resolution backing affordable homeownership and highlights CalHome

The California State Senate on the floor adopted Senate Resolution 71, a ceremonial measure recognizing affordable homeownership as a key route to economic stability, generational asset building and stronger neighborhoods. "Homeownership isn't just about housing," the author, Senator Adegin, told colleagues while introducing the resolution, noting research linking homeownership to better health and educational outcomes.

Coauthors and supporters stressed that nonprofit builders and state programs play a critical role. "It is very important that we recognize the vital role today of nonprofits such as Habitat for Humanity," said Senator Grayson. Senator Sarah Grama urged support for CalHome funding, saying in her district "over 70% of my constituents are renters" and characterizing ownership as a way to build long-term stability.

Speakers framed the resolution both as recognition of the problem and as a call to legislative focus. Senator Wahab linked historical policies to present disparities, saying systemic government actions such as redlining have contributed to lower homeownership rates among communities of color. Senator Caballero cited recent market figures, saying mid-tier prices are "about $755,000," and called nonprofit builders an important source of entry-level opportunities.

Senator Adegin closed by noting that much legislative attention over the past decade has prioritized rental housing and that, as chair of the Senate Housing Committee, she intends to make affordable homeownership a key focus. She also recognized members of Habitat for Humanity present on the floor and emphasized CalHome as ‘‘California's only state program dedicated to producing and preserving affordable homeownership for low income families.’’

The Secretary called the roll; the clerk announced the result as Ayes 35, No 0 and the resolution passed. Following the vote, members welcomed Habitat for Humanity representatives to the floor for a brief recognition and photo opportunity.

What happens next: SR 71 is a nonbinding recognition; supporters said it will shape the committee agenda and legislative priorities rather than create a new statutory requirement. Senators who advocated for the measure urged additional funding and programmatic incentives to increase entry-level ownership opportunities.