(current as of Updated 04/14/2026)

What is SB 79?

Senate Bill (SB) 79, also known as the Abundant and Affordable Homes Near Transit Act, is a new California state law that encourages more housing near eligible public transit stops, such as heavy and light rail stations and high-frequency bus stops. The law is intended to increase the supply of housing, support the creation of affordable homes, and reduce long commutes by facilitating housing closer to transit, jobs, and services. SB 79 was signed into law in October 2025 and will go into effect July 1, 2026.

Impact of SB 79

SB 79 reflects approaches the City of Los Angeles has advanced to guide equitable, transit-oriented growth through the Citywide Housing Incentive Program (CHIP) and related
planning initiatives. Like CHIP, SB 79 aligns new housing with high-quality transit while supporting increased housing production alongside strong affordability requirements and tenant protections.

By expanding tools available to the City, SB 79 can further shape where housing is located, how building intensity is calibrated near transit, and how affordability is integrated into new development. These outcomes advance established citywide goals to increase housing supply, reduce displacement pressures, and improve access to jobs, services, and public transportation.

SB 79 does not mandate a single outcome. Instead, it gives Los Angeles flexibility to implement the law in a way that builds on existing policies, community planning priorities,
and equity-focused strategies. The decisions made through this process will help strengthen the City’s long-term approach to housing and transit-oriented development.