Following recent failed attempts to strengthen renter protections at the state level, the latest has all but succeeded.
Though it will not affect local rent-control regulations — unlike legislation and a voter initiative that were struck down in 2018 — Assemblyman David Chiu’s Assembly Bill 1482’s effects will resemble rent control by preventing severe rent hikes. And it’s impact will be broader because it applies statewide to residential buildings that are at least 15 years old. Lawmakers sent the bill to Gov. Gavin Newsom’s desk Wednesday, and he has pledged to sign it into law.
Previously, when the bill’s fate was far less certain, we sat down with Chiu to talk about how it would work and what challenges he faced in getting it passed.
“I think San Francisco and Bay Area legislators, we get it. But making sure that all of my colleagues who need to vote on these bills are there too, that’s the political challenge.” — David Chiu
