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Bill would block strategic avoidance of SB79 transit rules, LA Metro tells committee
Summary
SB1361 would prevent jurisdictions from changing planned transit decisions to avoid SB79 density and other requirements; LA Metro and unions said the bill protects transit projects and related jobs, while some cities expressed respectful opposition.
Author presented SB1361 as a narrowly tailored fix to avoid a growing pattern in which local pushback to SB79 (transit-oriented housing rules) can manifest as opposition to transit projects themselves. “SB1361 removes the ability for objections to be made to transit projects on the basis of opposition to increased density requirements in SB79,” said Madeline Moore of LA Metro, who testified in support.
LA Metro and labor unions said the risk is real: local resistance to transit stops can delay projects, increase costs, and imperil federal funding. Matt Brott, representing Teamsters and transit unions, said workers and communities rely on predictable investments and urged the committee to pass the bill. The City of Burbank registered respectful opposition, saying local planning discretion should be preserved for legitimate planning considerations.
Outcome: Committee moved SB1361 to the Assembly Committee on Local Government; roll call in the hearing recorded a favorable vote (transcript shows 9–0 with two members not voting).
