Volts The fight to build faster in California
Jun 25, 2025
Buffy Wicks, an Oakland Assemblymember, and Scott Wiener, a San Francisco State Senator, join to tackle California's housing crisis. They discuss their groundbreaking bills aimed at reforming CEQA, which has become a hurdle for housing developments. The conversation dives into how well-meaning environmental laws have been manipulated by various groups, delaying crucial projects. They also explore the political shifts enabling these reforms and the balance needed between environmental protection and the urgent demand for affordable housing.
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CEQA's Broad Impact on Development
- CEQA was designed to protect the environment but has expanded to delay housing and essential projects.
- Lawsuits under CEQA often serve as blunt instruments stopping projects beyond their original environmental intent.
CEQA Lawsuits Beyond Environment
- CEQA lawsuits have been filed to oppose phasing out oil extraction and even against childcare and food banks.
- These examples show CEQA's use as leverage far beyond environmental protections.
CEQA as a Labor Negotiation Tool
- Labor unions use CEQA lawsuits to demand better labor agreements on construction projects.
- This misuse complicates housing development and should instead be addressed through labor laws.
