California YIMBY Statement on AB 2580 – Transparency of Historic Preservation Laws

Governor Newsom Signs Law for More Accountability in Historic Designations

 “California has a wealth of historic resources, but should take steps to make sure the process is not abused to block new homes”

SACRAMENTO — On Friday, the California Governor Gavin Newsom signed into law AB 2580, a bill authored by Assemblymember Buffy Wicks (East Bay) and sponsored by California YIMBY that will help to align local efforts to preserve historic structures with the need to build more homes.

The bill, which now goes to the Governor’s desk, requires local jurisdictions to report to the state’s Department of Housing and Community Development when it approves new historic designations and evaluate how these designations impact the need for more housing.

California YIMBY CEO Brian Hanlon offered the following statement in response to the Governor’s signature: 

“California’s unique history and historical architecture are worth protecting – but the preservation process is often abused by parties who simply want to prevent the construction of new homes,” said Brian Hanlon, CEO of Brian Hanlon. “By signing AB 2580 into law, Governor Newsom is sending a clear message to jurisdictions across our state – don’t abuse the process. Asm. Buffy Wicks deserves special praise for taking on this complex issue and crafting legislation that will finally help us address it.”
Learn more: https://cayimby.org/legislation/ab-2580/

About California YIMBY

California YIMBY is a community of neighbors who welcome more neighbors. We believe that an equitable California begins with abundant, secure, affordable housing. We focus on housing and land use policy at the state and local level to ensure grassroots organizers and city leaders have the tools they need to accelerate home building. Learn more: https://cayimby.org/