Press Release

Senator Dr. Aisha Wahab Delivers Major Housing Protections, Affordability Wins, and Over $1.4 Billion in Investments for California Residents

Senator Dr. Aisha Wahab, the Chair on the Senate Committee on Housing, stated, “Today, we delivered thoughtful progress and real investments on housing—not empty promises. With SB 681—and over $1.4 billion secured for affordable housing, renters, and first-time homebuyers—we’re delivering real protections for residents, fighting displacement, and prioritizing affordability. Housing is about stability, dignity, and keeping people rooted in their communities—not solely market-rate development.” 
 

Senator Dr. Wahab’s Housing Wins Adopted in the 2025-2026 CA Budget:

Provision: What It Means for Californians:
Zombie Mortgage Protections Stops unfair foreclosures by strengthening notice requirements and loan servicer accountability on second mortgages.
Bigger Renter’s Tax Credit Quadruples the renter’s tax credit, putting more money back in renters’ pockets.
$300 Million — Dream for All Program Helps first-time, first-generation buyers achieve homeownership.
$500 Million — Low-Income Housing Tax Credits Provides critical funding for affordable housing projects across the state.
$500 Million — Homeless Housing, Assistance, and Prevention Supports local programs to address homelessness with accountability.
$120 Million — Multifamily Housing Program Funds construction of deeply affordable housing statewide.
Limits HOA Fines Caps HOA fines, bans excessive late fees, and gives homeowners a fair process to resolve violations.
Limits HOA Fees on ADUs Prevents unfair HOA fees that block Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) construction.
Surplus Land Act Expansion Ensures affordable housing is prioritized when school districts sell land.
Seismic Safety for Affordable Housing Directs earthquake safety funds to preserve affordable multifamily housing.
Housing Crisis & Accountability Acts Made Permanent Preserves protections for affordable housing and limits unjust denial of new housing projects.
Stronger Permit Streamlining Act Speeds up housing approvals by simplifying the process and setting clear timelines.
Updates to Housing Planning Rules (RHNA) Improves how the state measures overcrowding and plans for fair housing.
Affordable Housing in Coastal Zones Cuts red tape for housing projects with four or more units along the coast.