Noah Baustin

I thought it must be a mistake. There was no way the auto insurance premium on my 2015 Toyota Corolla was about to jump 30% after a year without a single accident or speeding ticket. But that’s exactly what my renewal documents said when I opened them in December.

core/paragraph

I thought it must be a mistake. There was no way the auto insurance premium on my 2015 Toyota Corolla was about to jump 30% after a year without a single accident or speeding ticket. But that’s exactly what my renewal documents said when I opened them in December.

Of course, I bemoaned the coming expense at the water cooler, only to learn that my colleague&#8217;s policy on his Subaru Crosstrek was cranking up 50%.&nbsp;

Of course, I bemoaned the coming expense at the water cooler, only to learn that my colleague's policy on his Subaru Crosstrek was cranking up 50%.&nbsp;

Of course, I bemoaned the coming expense at the water cooler, only to learn that my colleague&#8217;s policy on his Subaru Crosstrek was cranking up 50%.&nbsp;

Armed with my cellphone and the go-ahead from my editor to investigate on company time, I set out to fix my insurance woes, confident that I’d find a cheaper option within an hour.

Armed with my cellphone and the go-ahead from my editor to investigate on company time, I set out to fix my insurance woes, confident that I’d find a cheaper option within an hour.

It took a series of dropped calls, apologetic agents and disappointing celebrity endorsements before I realized how wrong I was to have expected a speedy solution. And my research uncovered why <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/11/california-car-insurance-rates-delays/">people across California</a> are about to face the same frustrating situation.

California car insurance is getting more expensive. Here&#8217;s why

It took a series of dropped calls, apologetic agents and disappointing celebrity endorsements before I realized how wrong I was to have expected a speedy solution. And my research uncovered why <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/11/california-car-insurance-rates-delays/">people across California</a> are about to face the same frustrating situation.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dialing-for-dollars">Dialing for Dollars</h2>

core/heading

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dialing-for-dollars">Dialing for Dollars</h2>

An initial internet search brought me to the California Department of Insurance’s <a href="https://www.insurance.ca.gov/01-consumers/105-type/1-auto/index.cfm">automobile premium comparison tool</a>. It generated a list of dozens of insurance companies, and I started calling the companies that seemed to advertise the cheapest options.

An initial internet search brought me to the California Department of Insurance’s <a href="https://www.insurance.ca.gov/01-consumers/105-type/1-auto/index.cfm">automobile premium comparison tool</a>. It generated a list of dozens of insurance companies, and I started calling the companies that seemed to advertise the cheapest options.

My new policy from Amica Mutual would cost $994 for six months. The sample rates displayed from other companies on the list appeared temptingly low by comparison, with the best ones offering six-month policies for as cheap as $405. I hadn’t heard of most of the companies but figured for a bargain like that, they would be worth a shot.

My new policy from Amica Mutual would cost $994 for six months. The sample rates displayed from other companies on the list appeared temptingly low by comparison, with the best ones offering six-month policies for as cheap as $405. I hadn’t heard of most of the companies but figured for a bargain like that, they would be worth a shot.

When I called the phone number for State National Insurance, which the list forecast would be my most affordable bet, Tesla Insurance picked up. After about 10 minutes on hold listening to a looped recording of instructions on how to download the Tesla app, I decided that, as a Corolla owner, this was probably not going to be a good fit. (I emailed Tesla Insurance asking if it covers Toyota Corollas and was told that representatives could not answer the question via email.)

When I called the phone number for State National Insurance, which the list forecast would be my most affordable bet, Tesla Insurance picked up. After about 10 minutes on hold listening to a looped recording of instructions on how to download the Tesla app, I decided that, as a Corolla owner, this was probably not going to be a good fit. (I emailed Tesla Insurance asking if it covers Toyota Corollas and was told that representatives could not answer the question via email.)

An aerial drone view, of a customer walking around a Nissan car dealership in Richmond on February 9, 2023. Nissan reported better-than-expected 155 percent surge in auto and vehicle purchases in third quarter operating profits of 133.1 billion yen compared to analyst expectations of 104.79 billion yen for the three months ending on Dec. 31.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/inlined01_20240122carinsurancejourney.jpg?w=2500" alt="An aerial view of a Nissan dealer, including a customer and several cars." class="wp-image-241594"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A customer walks around a Nissan car dealership in Richmond. California car owners will soon have to deal with rising auto insurance rates.</figcaption></figure>

core/image

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/inlined01_20240122carinsurancejourney.jpg?w=2500" alt="An aerial view of a Nissan dealer, including a customer and several cars." class="wp-image-241594"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A customer walks around a Nissan car dealership in Richmond. California car owners will soon have to deal with rising auto insurance rates.</figcaption></figure>

The next company on the list directed me to call a local agent, so I chose Fidelity Insurance Services Inc. in Berkeley. This time, I got through to a person. Speaking over the babble of a busy office, Patsy Renteria told me that her independent insurance agency, which works with a number of companies, was no longer taking on stand-alone auto insurance policies in California. That’s because the larger companies the agency works with have all put strict restrictions on which auto insurance policies they’re willing to write, and some have pulled out of the state altogether.

The next company on the list directed me to call a local agent, so I chose Fidelity Insurance Services Inc. in Berkeley. This time, I got through to a person. Speaking over the babble of a busy office, Patsy Renteria told me that her independent insurance agency, which works with a number of companies, was no longer taking on stand-alone auto insurance policies in California. That’s because the larger companies the agency works with have all put strict restrictions on which auto insurance policies they’re willing to write, and some have pulled out of the state altogether.

Auto insurers in California are legally required to sell insurance to anyone who qualifies as a good driver, though there have been <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/24/auto-insurance-ricardo-lara-california/">widespread reports</a> of companies shirking that rule.

California auto insurers under fire for limiting access to policies

Auto insurers in California are legally required to sell insurance to anyone who qualifies as a good driver, though there have been <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/24/auto-insurance-ricardo-lara-california/">widespread reports</a> of companies shirking that rule.

I could potentially get auto insurance through her company if I were packaging it with homeowner’s insurance, Renteria explained, but I don’t own my home. Packaging my auto insurance with renter’s insurance, she said, wouldn’t do the trick. 

I could potentially get auto insurance through her company if I were packaging it with homeowner’s insurance, Renteria explained, but I don’t own my home. Packaging my auto insurance with renter’s insurance, she said, wouldn’t do the trick.

I hung up without even getting a quote.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prices-climbing-across-the-industry">Prices Climbing Across the Industry</h2>

State Farm, California’s largest private insurer, made waves earlier this month as <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/09/state-farm-allstate-homeowners-auto-insurance-increase/">news broke that it was raising its auto insurance rates</a> by 21% in February. But State Farm is just one of more than 100 insurance companies that secured permission from the California Department of Insurance in 2023 to increase personal auto insurance rates. Other big names like Allstate and Farmers locked in 30% rate increases, while Geico got the green light for a 65% bump to its motorcycle premiums. Regulators told the Amica Mutual Insurance Company, which covers my Toyota Corolla, that it could raise its premiums by an average of 27%.

California’s largest insurer raises auto and home insurance rates by 20%

State Farm, California’s largest private insurer, made waves earlier this month as <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/09/state-farm-allstate-homeowners-auto-insurance-increase/">news broke that it was raising its auto insurance rates</a> by 21% in February. But State Farm is just one of more than 100 insurance companies that secured permission from the California Department of Insurance in 2023 to increase personal auto insurance rates. Other big names like Allstate and Farmers locked in 30% rate increases, while Geico got the green light for a 65% bump to its motorcycle premiums. Regulators told the Amica Mutual Insurance Company, which covers my Toyota Corolla, that it could raise its premiums by an average of 27%.

California’s insurance companies are playing catchup on auto insurance rates that have been artificially suppressed for years, according to Janet Ruiz, a spokesperson for the Insurance Information Institute, an industry trade group. Regulations requiring state approval for increases are keeping the rates too low, she said.

California’s insurance companies are playing catchup on auto insurance rates that have been artificially suppressed for years, according to Janet Ruiz, a spokesperson for the Insurance Information Institute, an industry trade group. Regulations requiring state approval for increases are keeping the rates too low, she said.

Covid-era inflation has jacked up the cost of repairing a vehicle, putting additional stress on insurers’ margins, Ruiz said.

Covid-era inflation has jacked up the cost of repairing a vehicle, putting additional stress on insurers’ margins, Ruiz said.

An aerial drone view, of new and used cars for sale at an automobile dealership in Glendale on February 15, 2023 . The Commerce Department released data today showing that retail sales saw a three percent jump in January, the biggest gain in almost two years. Sales increased 6.4 percent at automobile and other vehicle dealers.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/inlined02_20240122carinsurancejourney.jpg?w=2500" alt="An aerial view of cars in a parking lot." class="wp-image-241595"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Dozens of cars for sale are parked at an automobile dealership in Glendale. Regulators have given companies permission to hike rates across the board. </figcaption></figure>

In 2022, some of California’s largest auto insurance companies paid more for their claims and operating expenses than they took in in premiums, according to Ruiz. Some <a href="https://www.latimes.com/business/story/2023-08-28/farmers-insurance-lays-off-2-400-workers">turned to layoffs</a> to cut down on expenses.

In 2022, some of California’s largest auto insurance companies paid more for their claims and operating expenses than they took in in premiums, according to Ruiz. Some <a href="https://www.latimes.com/business/story/2023-08-28/farmers-insurance-lays-off-2-400-workers">turned to layoffs</a> to cut down on expenses.

“We can’t continue to lose money,” Ruiz said.

“We can’t continue to lose money,” Ruiz said.

On the other side of the issue is Carmen Balber, executive director of Consumer Watchdog, whose organization’s founder drafted the 1988 measure Proposition 103, which regulates the insurance industry. While there has been inflation in recent years, Balber says there are other factors at play.

On the other side of the issue is Carmen Balber, executive director of Consumer Watchdog, whose organization’s founder drafted the 1988 measure Proposition 103, which regulates the insurance industry. While there has been inflation in recent years, Balber says there are other factors at play.

“The industry is taking advantage of the moment where we see real cost increases to grab as much as they can,” Balber said.

“The industry is taking advantage of the moment where we see real cost increases to grab as much as they can,” Balber said.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-can-i-just-get-a-quote">Can I Just Get a Quote?</h2>

After hitting a brick wall with a local broker, I decided to go for a big name. I called The General Car Insurance, whose animated mascot stands side-by-side with Shaquille O’Neal in <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FgOrfg5IwaY&amp;t=9s">colorful commercials</a>. After (a recording of) the big man himself welcomed me to The General, a less-recognizable recorded voice let me know that The General wasn’t offering insurance in my area. After finally being informed that nobody was available to take my call, I was abruptly hung up on.

After hitting a brick wall with a local broker, I decided to go for a big name. I called The General Car Insurance, whose animated mascot stands side-by-side with Shaquille O’Neal in <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FgOrfg5IwaY&amp;t=9s">colorful commercials</a>. After (a recording of) the big man himself welcomed me to The General, a less-recognizable recorded voice let me know that The General wasn’t offering insurance in my area. After finally being informed that nobody was available to take my call, I was abruptly hung up on.

Metromile, the company that insures the colleague I commiserated with over rising insurance rates, also said it wasn’t offering policies in my ZIP code.

Metromile, the company that insures the colleague I commiserated with over rising insurance rates, also said it wasn’t offering policies in my ZIP code.

Next, I tried American National, and the website referred me to its Bay Area agent, Karan Park. After a quick chat, Park, who works with multiple companies, sent me a list of documents she’d need before sending back a quote. They included a copy of my vehicle registration, a photo of my driver’s license, proof of residency from a utility bill and pictures of my vehicle from all four sides.

Next, I tried American National, and the website referred me to its Bay Area agent, Karan Park. After a quick chat, Park, who works with multiple companies, sent me a list of documents she’d need before sending back a quote. They included a copy of my vehicle registration, a photo of my driver’s license, proof of residency from a utility bill and pictures of my vehicle from all four sides.

I was surprised. In December, California Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara put out a <a href="https://www.insurance.ca.gov/0250-insurers/0300-insurers/0200-bulletins/bulletin-notices-commiss-opinion/upload/Bulletin-2023-7-Requirements-for-Complete-Rate-Applications-and-Issuing-Good-Driver-Discount-Policies.pdf">bulletin</a> in response to widespread allegations that insurers were <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/24/auto-insurance-ricardo-lara-california/">dodging their legal obligation</a> to offer and sell insurance to everyone with good driving records. The bulletin said that requiring the exact documents Park asked for wasn’t allowed because they amounted to unreasonable application requirements.

I was surprised. In December, California Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara put out a <a href="https://www.insurance.ca.gov/0250-insurers/0300-insurers/0200-bulletins/bulletin-notices-commiss-opinion/upload/Bulletin-2023-7-Requirements-for-Complete-Rate-Applications-and-Issuing-Good-Driver-Discount-Policies.pdf">bulletin</a> in response to widespread allegations that insurers were <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/24/auto-insurance-ricardo-lara-california/">dodging their legal obligation</a> to offer and sell insurance to everyone with good driving records. The bulletin said that requiring the exact documents Park asked for wasn’t allowed because they amounted to unreasonable application requirements.

I called Park back. She explained that she didn’t used to need all this documentation before giving out a quote. But in August 2023, American National began trying to limit its clientele, she said. For example, the company wanted to avoid insuring inexperienced drivers and drivers from other states.

I called Park back. She explained that she didn’t used to need all this documentation before giving out a quote. But in August 2023, American National began trying to limit its clientele, she said. For example, the company wanted to avoid insuring inexperienced drivers and drivers from other states.

She hadn’t heard about the December bulletin barring onerous paperwork, though.

She hadn’t heard about the December bulletin barring onerous paperwork, though.

American National adjusted its application requirements to comply with the December state bulletin, according to company spokesperson Scott Campbell. The firm does not require California applicants to provide copies of utility bills, vehicle registrations, photos of driver’s licenses or photos of their vehicles to receive an auto insurance quote, he said.

American National adjusted its application requirements to comply with the December state bulletin, according to company spokesperson Scott Campbell. The firm does not require California applicants to provide copies of utility bills, vehicle registrations, photos of driver’s licenses or photos of their vehicles to receive an auto insurance quote, he said.

In an aerial drone view, a customer enters a CarMax auto dealership in Santa Rosa on April 11, 2023. Used car retailer CarMax reported fourth quarter earnings of $0.44 per share compared to analyst expectations of $0.22 per share. The company reported revenues of $5.72 billion compared to $7.69 billion one year ago.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/inlined03_20240122carinsurancejourney.jpg?w=2500" alt="An aerial view of a person entering a Car max dealership." class="wp-image-241596"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A customer enters a CarMax auto dealership in Santa Rosa. Insurance companies have made it harder and harder to get a rate quote. </figcaption></figure>

In a reaction to the doom-and-gloom financial forecasts of the past year, insurance companies have made it harder and harder to get a quote, even though they’re supposed to give one to every good driver, Balber said.

In a reaction to the doom-and-gloom financial forecasts of the past year, insurance companies have made it harder and harder to get a quote, even though they’re supposed to give one to every good driver, Balber said.

Insurance companies invest the funds from premiums in the stock market and other assets. Many people <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2023/12/26/the-us-avoided-a-recession-in-2023-whats-the-outlook-for-2024.html">expected a recession in 2023</a>, which would have made it harder to profit from investments. So the insurance companies wanted to play it safe by limiting their customers to the people who were the least likely to need a payout on a claim, according to Balber. Everyone else got locked out.

Insurance companies invest the funds from premiums in the stock market and other assets. Many people <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2023/12/26/the-us-avoided-a-recession-in-2023-whats-the-outlook-for-2024.html">expected a recession in 2023</a>, which would have made it harder to profit from investments. So the insurance companies wanted to play it safe by limiting their customers to the people who were the least likely to need a payout on a claim, according to Balber. Everyone else got locked out.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-finally-a-quote-maybe">Finally a Quote, Maybe</h2>

Geico was the first company to actually offer me a quote.&nbsp;

Geico was the first company to actually offer me a quote.&nbsp;

After filling out Geico’s online questionnaire, the offer was actually about half of what I’m set to start paying when my plan renews with Amica. But the company will have to complete a 15-day underwriting review before it can confirm the plan, the online system said.

After filling out Geico’s online questionnaire, the offer was actually about half of what I’m set to start paying when my plan renews with Amica. But the company will have to complete a 15-day underwriting review before it can confirm the plan, the online system said.

That’s where I stand today. I’m waiting to hear back from Geico, feeling worried that the tentative offer from the website is too good to be true, which has happened to <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/11/california-car-insurance-rates-delays/">other Californians in recent months</a> as they try to close the deal on bargains.

That’s where I stand today. I’m waiting to hear back from Geico, feeling worried that the tentative offer from the website is too good to be true, which has happened to <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/11/california-car-insurance-rates-delays/">other Californians in recent months</a> as they try to close the deal on bargains.

I’m not sure what I’ll decide. If the Geico offer comes through, maybe I’ll join Team Gecko.

I’m not sure what I’ll decide. If the Geico offer comes through, maybe I’ll join Team Gecko.

Either way, given the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/09/25/california-just-announced-a-new-insurance-strategy-heres-why-its-controversial/">recent volatility in the insurance market</a>, I can’t shake the feeling that I may very well find myself doing this same search a year from now.

California’s new home, auto insurance strategy is controversial. Here’s why

Either way, given the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/09/25/california-just-announced-a-new-insurance-strategy-heres-why-its-controversial/">recent volatility in the insurance market</a>, I can’t shake the feeling that I may very well find myself doing this same search a year from now.

My car insurance is skyrocketing. Here’s what happened when I shopped around

David Sjostedt

Correction: A previous version of this article said a suspect was arrested on charges relating to meth. However, SFPD <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/san-francisco-magic-mushrooms-police-meth/">gave out incorrect information</a> to The Standard, a police spokesperson said: &#8220;In our initial synopsis of the incident, we misspoke on the charges placed on [the suspect]. There were no charges related to methamphetamine placed on [the suspect]. The charges placed on [him] were related to psilocybin.&#8221;

Correction: A previous version of this article said a suspect was arrested on charges relating to meth. However, SFPD <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/san-francisco-magic-mushrooms-police-meth/">gave out incorrect information</a> to The Standard, a police spokesperson said: "In our initial synopsis of the incident, we misspoke on the charges placed on [the suspect]. There were no charges related to methamphetamine placed on [the suspect]. The charges placed on [him] were related to psilocybin."

Correction: A previous version of this article said a suspect was arrested on charges relating to meth. However, SFPD <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/san-francisco-magic-mushrooms-police-meth/">gave out incorrect information</a> to The Standard, a police spokesperson said: &#8220;In our initial synopsis of the incident, we misspoke on the charges placed on [the suspect]. There were no charges related to methamphetamine placed on [the suspect]. The charges placed on [him] were related to psilocybin.&#8221;

San Francisco police arrested a business owner for allegedly selling magic mushrooms from his Haight Street shop after raiding it in November.

San Francisco police arrested a business owner for allegedly selling magic mushrooms from his Haight Street shop after raiding it in November.

The District Attorney&#8217;s Office charged the suspect with three felony counts for selling, possessing and maintaining a place of business for the purpose of selling psilocybin, otherwise known as magic mushrooms.

The District Attorney's Office charged the suspect with three felony counts for selling, possessing and maintaining a place of business for the purpose of selling psilocybin, otherwise known as magic mushrooms.

The District Attorney&#8217;s Office charged the suspect with three felony counts for selling, possessing and maintaining a place of business for the purpose of selling psilocybin, otherwise known as magic mushrooms.

Bobbi’s on Haight, a shop that launched in October, was open for a little over a month before police raided the business on Nov. 23, arresting its owner, a 38-year-old man, for allegedly possessing psilocybin with intent to sell.&nbsp;

Bobbi’s on Haight, a shop that launched in October, was open for a little over a month before police raided the business on Nov. 23, arresting its owner, a 38-year-old man, for allegedly possessing psilocybin with intent to sell.&nbsp;

The building was registered to sell retail merchandise, according to city records.&nbsp;

The building was registered to sell retail merchandise, according to city records.&nbsp;

The shop reportedly sold clothes and branded merchandise, but also allegedly sold psychedelic magic mushrooms. Two separate sources confirmed to The Standard that they had knowledge of magic mushrooms being sold at the store during the time it was open.

The shop reportedly sold clothes and branded merchandise, but also allegedly sold psychedelic magic mushrooms. Two separate sources confirmed to The Standard that they had knowledge of magic mushrooms being sold at the store during the time it was open.

Adam Egelman, who lives across the street from the former business, said he was disturbed by the “show of force” from SFPD.

Adam Egelman, who lives across the street from the former business, said he was disturbed by the “show of force” from SFPD.

“I still don’t think the police response was warranted,” Egelman said. “It was the day before Thanksgiving at 5 p.m. It didn’t seem there was actual danger.”

“I still don’t think the police response was warranted,” Egelman said. “It was the day before Thanksgiving at 5 p.m. It didn’t seem there was actual danger.”

core/embed

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://twitter.com/adamegelman/status/1595602742025887744?s=20&amp;t=Q3whyAoSLtMnQIt3n_9LPg
</div></figure>

SF city leaders <a href="https://sfstandard.com/arts-culture/san-francisco-has-effectively-decriminalized-mushrooms-now-what/">effectively decriminalized magic mushrooms</a> in September. And State Sen. Scott Wiener introduced a bill Tuesday that would essentially legalize magic mushrooms and other psychedelics for personal use in California. The city has yet to <a href="https://sfstandard.com/business/sfs-push-to-decriminalize-psychedelics-could-unlock-a-whole-new-trip-for-underground-merchants/">create a path forward</a> for businesses to sell them legally.&nbsp;

SF city leaders <a href="https://sfstandard.com/arts-culture/san-francisco-has-effectively-decriminalized-mushrooms-now-what/">effectively decriminalized magic mushrooms</a> in September. And State Sen. Scott Wiener introduced a bill Tuesday that would essentially legalize magic mushrooms and other psychedelics for personal use in California. The city has yet to <a href="https://sfstandard.com/business/sfs-push-to-decriminalize-psychedelics-could-unlock-a-whole-new-trip-for-underground-merchants/">create a path forward</a> for businesses to sell them legally.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, SFPD has <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/police-target-drug-users-in-tenderloin-crackdown-we-have-to-disrupt-this-activity/">ramped up its efforts to arrest drug dealers and users</a> in recent months and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/da-chesa-boudin-fentanyl-court-data-drug-dealing-immigration/">concerns around open-air drug markets</a> are said to be part of the reason for the successful recall of District Attorney Chesa Boudin.

Meanwhile, SFPD has <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/police-target-drug-users-in-tenderloin-crackdown-we-have-to-disrupt-this-activity/">ramped up its efforts to arrest drug dealers and users</a> in recent months and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/da-chesa-boudin-fentanyl-court-data-drug-dealing-immigration/">concerns around open-air drug markets</a> are said to be part of the reason for the successful recall of District Attorney Chesa Boudin.

Local leaders often debate the effectiveness of arresting drug dealers. Harm reduction experts <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/as-the-drug-overdose-crisis-rages-city-fails-to-collect-data-needed-to-fight-it/">argue that police raids create an unpredictable supply</a>, increasing the likelihood of overdoses when it comes to dangerous drugs, while critics contend that the city has made it too easy for drug dealers to stay in business <a href="https://sfstandard.com/public-health/sf-supervisor-asks-health-department-to-get-real-on-drug-treatment/">without providing sufficient treatment options</a> for those suffering the negative effects of addictive substances.&nbsp;

Local leaders often debate the effectiveness of arresting drug dealers. Harm reduction experts <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/as-the-drug-overdose-crisis-rages-city-fails-to-collect-data-needed-to-fight-it/">argue that police raids create an unpredictable supply</a>, increasing the likelihood of overdoses when it comes to dangerous drugs, while critics contend that the city has made it too easy for drug dealers to stay in business <a href="https://sfstandard.com/public-health/sf-supervisor-asks-health-department-to-get-real-on-drug-treatment/">without providing sufficient treatment options</a> for those suffering the negative effects of addictive substances.&nbsp;

San Francisco magic mushroom shop raided

Sarah Wright

Now that it looks like Proposition D has <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/elections/props-d-e-election-night/">failed</a> at the ballot box, housing activists are looking to the state to fix San Francisco’s housing shortage.

Now that it looks like Proposition D has <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/elections/props-d-e-election-night/">failed</a> at the ballot box, housing activists are looking to the state to fix San Francisco’s housing shortage.

Next up for debate is the Housing Element—or an eight-year plan to build drastically more housing in the city—which is the subject of a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/gimme-shelter-supervisors-to-scrutinize-housing-plan/">hearing at City Hall on Tuesday</a>. But even if that plan passes the board, those advocates aren’t confident that the 82,000 new housing units required by the state by 2031 will materialize after the failure of Prop. D.

Next up for debate is the Housing Element—or an eight-year plan to build drastically more housing in the city—which is the subject of a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/gimme-shelter-supervisors-to-scrutinize-housing-plan/">hearing at City Hall on Tuesday</a>. But even if that plan passes the board, those advocates aren’t confident that the 82,000 new housing units required by the state by 2031 will materialize after the failure of Prop. D.

“It’s a massive missed opportunity,” said state Sen. Scott Wiener.&nbsp;

“It’s a massive missed opportunity,” said state Sen. Scott Wiener.&nbsp;

The latest election <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/november-2022-election-results/">results</a> show Prop. D, which sought to cut out red tape for certain housing projects, losing by about 5,000 votes. Its rival, Prop. E—put forth by the city’s progressives—<a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/election-update-prop-e-loses-district-4-and-prop-d-races-remain-too-close-to-call/">has also failed</a>, sending the city back to the drawing board on housing with weeks to go before a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/state-housing-probe-begins-as-sf-races-to-meet-key-deadline/">key state deadline</a>.&nbsp;

The latest election <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/november-2022-election-results/">results</a> show Prop. D, which sought to cut out red tape for certain housing projects, losing by about 5,000 votes. Its rival, Prop. E—put forth by the city’s progressives—<a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/election-update-prop-e-loses-district-4-and-prop-d-races-remain-too-close-to-call/">has also failed</a>, sending the city back to the drawing board on housing with weeks to go before a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/state-housing-probe-begins-as-sf-races-to-meet-key-deadline/">key state deadline</a>.&nbsp;

“Proposition D was never going to be a panacea,” said Corey Smith, executive director of the Housing Action Coalition. “We woke up today, and the affordability and displacement crisis still exists […] At the end of the day, I’m not going to be discouraged or throw my hands up in overall defeat.”&nbsp;

“Proposition D was never going to be a panacea,” said Corey Smith, executive director of the Housing Action Coalition. “We woke up today, and the affordability and displacement crisis still exists […] At the end of the day, I’m not going to be discouraged or throw my hands up in overall defeat.”&nbsp;

Smith chalked up the loss to the competition from Prop. E, which he says killed Prop. D’s chances. Prop. E failed more decisively, losing by around 20,000 votes after the first week of election returns.&nbsp;

Smith chalked up the loss to the competition from Prop. E, which he says killed Prop. D’s chances. Prop. E failed more decisively, losing by around 20,000 votes after the first week of election returns.&nbsp;

Corey Smith with Housing Action Coalition attends a press conference at City Hall on Oct. 26, 2022, promoting affordable housing and proposition D. | Camille Cohen/The Standard

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/YIMBYNextMove111422_INLINED.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-93384"/><figcaption>Corey Smith with Housing Action Coalition attends a press conference at City Hall on Oct. 26. | Camille Cohen/The Standard</figcaption></figure>

Prop. D’s failure is a big setback for the YIMBY movement, which has been successful in the state and wider Bay Area but has <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/yimbyism-ate-the-entire-world-except-its-own-backyard/">barely made headway in its home turf in San Francisco</a>. The housing-supply advocates and their allies <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/whos-spending-breed-backed-housing-measure-still-a-money-monster/">raised millions in favor of Prop. D.</a>&nbsp;

Prop. D’s failure is a big setback for the YIMBY movement, which has been successful in the state and wider Bay Area but has <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/yimbyism-ate-the-entire-world-except-its-own-backyard/">barely made headway in its home turf in San Francisco</a>. The housing-supply advocates and their allies <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/whos-spending-breed-backed-housing-measure-still-a-money-monster/">raised millions in favor of Prop. D.</a>&nbsp;

State Sen. Scott Wiener said although voters may have been confused as to which ballot measure would have the greatest effect on making it easier to build affordable housing, together they attracted a clear majority.&nbsp;

State Sen. Scott Wiener said although voters may have been confused as to which ballot measure would have the greatest effect on making it easier to build affordable housing, together they attracted a clear majority.&nbsp;

“Almost 80% of San Franciscans supported some version of housing streamlining, and that is the silver lining here,” Wiener said.

“Almost 80% of San Franciscans supported some version of housing streamlining, and that is the silver lining here,” Wiener said.

Supervisor Rafael Mandelman sees the Housing Element Update, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/sfs-last-chance-to-prove-it-will-build-82k-homes-just-dropped-heres-what-could-go-wrong/">up for discussion at the board tomorrow,</a> as City Hall’s main opportunity to fix San Francisco’s housing process and to plan its growth.&nbsp;

Supervisor Rafael Mandelman sees the Housing Element Update, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/sfs-last-chance-to-prove-it-will-build-82k-homes-just-dropped-heres-what-could-go-wrong/">up for discussion at the board tomorrow,</a> as City Hall’s main opportunity to fix San Francisco’s housing process and to plan its growth.&nbsp;

The stakes are higher this year than in the past: The city is facing elevated housing targets—nearly three times as high as the last cycle’s—and worse penalties, too. And if the city fails to certify its plan by the end of January, the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/state-housing-probe-begins-as-sf-races-to-meet-key-deadline/">“builder’s remedy”</a> will kick in, stripping San Francisco of its control over its own zoning-based housing approvals.

The stakes are higher this year than in the past: The city is facing elevated housing targets—nearly three times as high as the last cycle’s—and worse penalties, too. And if the city fails to certify its plan by the end of January, the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/state-housing-probe-begins-as-sf-races-to-meet-key-deadline/">“builder’s remedy”</a> will kick in, stripping San Francisco of its control over its own zoning-based housing approvals.

Meanwhile, the state has initiated an investigation into the city’s housing policies and practices and is expected to release its first round of preliminary findings in January before a final report in July.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the state has initiated an investigation into the city’s housing policies and practices and is expected to release its first round of preliminary findings in January before a final report in July.&nbsp;

“The voters have not solved this problem for us, and we need to do the work,” Mandelman said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“The voters have not solved this problem for us, and we need to do the work,” Mandelman said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Without the streamlining for affordable housing projects that Prop. D would have guaranteed, Wiener and Smith aren’t sure much housing will actually get built in the next eight years, as the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/how-san-francisco-makes-it-insanely-hard-to-build-housing/">cost of building has skyrocketed.</a>&nbsp;

Without the streamlining for affordable housing projects that Prop. D would have guaranteed, Wiener and Smith aren’t sure much housing will actually get built in the next eight years, as the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/how-san-francisco-makes-it-insanely-hard-to-build-housing/">cost of building has skyrocketed.</a>&nbsp;

“I think that Prop. D passing would have made it much easier to get those numbers,” Smith said. “Now that [the board] allows affordable housing projects to continue to be sued, what’s the plan?”

“I think that Prop. D passing would have made it much easier to get those numbers,” Smith said. “Now that [the board] allows affordable housing projects to continue to be sued, what’s the plan?”

There is a fail-safe baked in state law, however, Wiener said.&nbsp;

There is a fail-safe baked in state law, however, Wiener said.&nbsp;

If the city is still behind on its state housing targets in four years, Senate Bill 35 would kick in, allowing all permits for new housing construction to be approved automatically.

If the city is still behind on its state housing targets in four years, Senate Bill 35 would kick in, allowing all permits for new housing construction to be approved automatically.

As for Wiener’s plans to take on the city’s permitting woes from his seat at the state Senate, he says to stay tuned.&nbsp;

As for Wiener’s plans to take on the city’s permitting woes from his seat at the state Senate, he says to stay tuned.&nbsp;

Housing activists plot their next move as ballot measure fails

Annie Gaus

Swimmers at a rally to save Aquatic Park Pier. | Annie Gaus/The Standard

City and state officials were among the speakers at the rally for Aquatic Park Pier on Saturday in San Francisco. | Annie Gaus/The Standard

Some demonstrators took to the water via boat as supporters of Aquatic Park Pier rallied the federal government to rebuild the historic asset on Saturday. | Annie Gaus/The Standard

Supervisor Aaron Peskin was among the swimmers who took a dip at the rally for Aquatic Park Pier on Saturday despite the cold, drizzly weather. | Annie Gaus/The Standard

core/gallery

A crowd of swimmers, boaters and fishermen gathered on Saturday to rally the federal government to rebuild Aquatic Park Pier, a historic landmark adjoining Fisherman’s Wharf that was closed indefinitely after the National Park Service deemed it structurally unsound.

A crowd of swimmers, boaters and fishermen gathered on Saturday to rally the federal government to rebuild Aquatic Park Pier, a historic landmark adjoining Fisherman’s Wharf that was closed indefinitely after the National Park Service deemed it structurally unsound.

Joined by Supervisor Catherine Stefani, Supervisor Aaron Peskin, state Sen. Scott Wiener and others, the crowd—some braving the chilly, drizzly weather in costumes and swimwear—urged the federal government to prioritize rebuilding the pier, which acts as both a recreational space and a critical piece of infrastructure. 

Joined by Supervisor Catherine Stefani, Supervisor Aaron Peskin, state Sen. Scott Wiener and others, the crowd—some braving the chilly, drizzly weather in costumes and swimwear—urged the federal government to prioritize rebuilding the pier, which acts as both a recreational space and a critical piece of infrastructure.

“This is the last straw before the pier dies a final death,” said Fran Hegeler of the <a href="https://aquaticparkpier.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aquatic Park &amp; Pier Project</a>, adding that Saturday’s rally would be the first of several “pier pressure” events until the city secures a funding commitment to <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/san-francisco-aquatic-park-pier-rally-federal-funds/">repair the crumbling pier</a>.

“This is the last straw before the pier dies a final death,” said Fran Hegeler of the <a href="https://aquaticparkpier.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aquatic Park &amp; Pier Project</a>, adding that Saturday’s rally would be the first of several “pier pressure” events until the city secures a funding commitment to <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/san-francisco-aquatic-park-pier-rally-federal-funds/">repair the crumbling pier</a>.

Built in the early 1930s, Aquatic Park Pier created a protected cove where San Franciscans could safely swim and paddle. The curved pier, part of a national historic district that includes the San Francisco Maritime Museum, serves as a ​​breakwater, partially absorbing tides and pacifying the water in the cove.&nbsp;

Built in the early 1930s, Aquatic Park Pier created a protected cove where San Franciscans could safely swim and paddle. The curved pier, part of a national historic district that includes the San Francisco Maritime Museum, serves as a ​​breakwater, partially absorbing tides and pacifying the water in the cove.&nbsp;

Since then, the pier and cove have become a major draw for tourists, fishermen, boaters and brave souls who swim in the chilly bay waters. The pier draws about 4.2 million visitors per year, said Peskin.&nbsp;

Since then, the pier and cove have become a major draw for tourists, fishermen, boaters and brave souls who swim in the chilly bay waters. The pier draws about 4.2 million visitors per year, said Peskin.&nbsp;

Last month, the National Park Service closed Aquatic Park Pier permanently after an earthquake rendered it structurally unsound.&nbsp;

Last month, the National Park Service closed Aquatic Park Pier permanently after an earthquake rendered it structurally unsound.&nbsp;

“This is a national asset,” said Peskin before taking a plunge in the bay.&nbsp; “It s our imperative to make noise. […] This is not our thing; this is the federal government’s thing.”&nbsp;

“This is a national asset,” said Peskin before taking a plunge in the bay.&nbsp; “It s our imperative to make noise. […] This is not our thing; this is the federal government’s thing.”&nbsp;

According to the National Park Service, the pier cannot be repaired and must be replaced entirely—a project that’s expected to cost more than $100 million.&nbsp;

According to the National Park Service, the pier cannot be repaired and must be replaced entirely—a project that’s expected to cost more than $100 million.&nbsp;

As part of the Great American Outdoors Act, a $9 billion federal bill passed in 2020, the National Park Service has proposed using about $100 million to rehabilitate the nearby Hyde Street Pier and National Historic Landmark Eureka Ferryboat.

As part of the Great American Outdoors Act, a $9 billion federal bill passed in 2020, the National Park Service has proposed using about $100 million to rehabilitate the nearby Hyde Street Pier and National Historic Landmark Eureka Ferryboat.

No funding to rebuild Aquatic Park Pier has been secured so far, although Sen. Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) has requested $15 million to get started on its restoration.&nbsp;

No funding to rebuild Aquatic Park Pier has been secured so far, although Sen. Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) has requested $15 million to get started on its restoration.&nbsp;

According to the National Park Service, if the pier collapses, the tidal forces of the bay could endanger the Aquatic Park promenade and the historic ships docked in the area, both popular tourist attractions.&nbsp;

According to the National Park Service, if the pier collapses, the tidal forces of the bay could endanger the Aquatic Park promenade and the historic ships docked in the area, both popular tourist attractions.&nbsp;

“It protects the beach; it protects the northern waterfront from flooding. And look at it—it’s beautiful,” said Stefani.

“It protects the beach; it protects the northern waterfront from flooding. And look at it—it’s beautiful,” said Stefani.

‘The last straw’: SF swimmers, officials urge feds to save historic pier

Josh Koehn

Meaghan Mitchell

Last call might come a couple hours later in the night if a new bill from two San Francisco state legislators is signed into law. <a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtml?bill_id=202120220SB930">SB 930</a>, co-authored by Sen. Scott Wiener and Assemblymember Matt Haney, would create a pilot program in San Francisco and a handful of other cities in California to allow <a href="https://sfstandard.com/business/last-call-at-4-a-m-sf-legislators-renew-push-to-keep-bars-open-later/">bars to remain open until 4 a.m.</a> The goal is to encourage a more vibrant nightlife scene and help an industry that has been hit hard during the pandemic.

Last call might come a couple hours later in the night if a new bill from two San Francisco state legislators is signed into law. <a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtml?bill_id=202120220SB930">SB 930</a>, co-authored by Sen. Scott Wiener and Assemblymember Matt Haney, would create a pilot program in San Francisco and a handful of other cities in California to allow <a href="https://sfstandard.com/business/last-call-at-4-a-m-sf-legislators-renew-push-to-keep-bars-open-later/">bars to remain open until 4 a.m.</a> The goal is to encourage a more vibrant nightlife scene and help an industry that has been hit hard during the pandemic.

Search Results for: bill scott

My car insurance is skyrocketing. Here’s what happened when I shopped around

San Francisco magic mushroom shop raided

Housing activists plot their next move as ballot measure fails

‘The last straw’: SF swimmers, officials urge feds to save historic pier

Hella News: Lots of love for bill to keep SF bars open until 4 a.m