Newsom Signs SB 79, Upzones Transit Hubs | JQJO

Gov. Gavin Newsom signed SB 79, a sweeping law to boost housing density near transit, after months of debate. Taking effect July 1, 2026, it overrides local zoning to allow up to nine stories at subway stops and five to eight near light rail and bus lanes, with deferrals and exemptions through about 2030. The measure, limited to eight counties, is expected to hit Los Angeles hardest and follows a June bill to streamline housing construction and cut CEQA red tape. YIMBY groups hailed a landmark step; several cities, including L.A., protested carve-outs for affluent cities and one-size-fits-all planning.