KQED's Forum Gov. Newsom Signs Slew of New Bills
Oct 10, 2025
Guy Marzarati, a correspondent at KQED's California Politics desk, and Jeannie Kwong from CalMatters explore Governor Newsom's recent legislative decisions. They discuss significant housing reforms that allow taller buildings near transit, and new laws targeting illegal street vending. Kwong highlights important education measures, including a ban on ultra-processed school lunches and enhanced training to prevent sexual misconduct. They also examine emerging regulations on AI and the ongoing debates surrounding California's reparations initiatives.
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Transit-Oriented Housing Push
- Senate Bill 79 lets developers build taller housing near transit to increase supply and density.
- Guy Marzarati argues this, combined with CEQA reforms, marks 2025 as a big year for state-driven housing development.
Local Governments Versus State Housing Goals
- Opposition to housing reforms came largely from local governments fearing loss of zoning control, not strict partisan lines.
- Jeannie Kwong explains the state is pressing cities to plan and permit housing to meet population needs.
Affordability Concerns Shaped Amendments
- Density fears center on gentrification and displacement, prompting amendments requiring affordability in streamlined projects.
- Guy Marzarati notes the bill passed with a mix of Democratic and Republican support despite many Democrats initially opposing it.