Annie Gaus

A fiercely contested housing proposal in the Sunset District moved forward at the San Francisco Board of Supervisors on Wednesday with the approval of a $14.3 million loan to support the project.&nbsp;

core/paragraph

A fiercely contested housing proposal in the Sunset District moved forward at the San Francisco Board of Supervisors on Wednesday with the approval of a $14.3 million loan to support the project.&nbsp;

The Board’s Budget and Finance Committee voted to approve the loan for the seven-story, 100% affordable development at 2550 Irving Street that has sparked debate in and around the neighborhood for months. The loan, which is instrumental in ensuring further financing for the project, will advance to the full Board of Supervisors for a final vote.&nbsp;

The Board’s Budget and Finance Committee voted to approve the loan for the seven-story, 100% affordable development at 2550 Irving Street that has sparked debate in and around the neighborhood for months. The loan, which is instrumental in ensuring further financing for the project, will advance to the full Board of Supervisors for a final vote.&nbsp;

2550 Irving would be the first entirely affordable housing development of its kind in the Sunset District.

2550 Irving would be the first entirely affordable housing development of its kind in the Sunset District.

<figure class="wp-block-image"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/LaAay2r2Z-F3GBlbMUd2q1kaqfmfq7xcDXJbPMAcTvws6XnUQixlQvif5pIMqyQmewGKhgdh1npmfIYGV2r2jSjILI0AmkhhABOiDEiujh0zMZSsZIUuEAuwo7NizK2xlv5NNqL7" alt=""/><figcaption>The Police Credit Union at 2550 Irving St. is the proposed site for a 98-unit affordable housing project in the Sunset. | Photo by Camille Cohen</figcaption></figure>

core/image

<figure class="wp-block-image"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/LaAay2r2Z-F3GBlbMUd2q1kaqfmfq7xcDXJbPMAcTvws6XnUQixlQvif5pIMqyQmewGKhgdh1npmfIYGV2r2jSjILI0AmkhhABOiDEiujh0zMZSsZIUuEAuwo7NizK2xlv5NNqL7" alt=""/><figcaption>The Police Credit Union at 2550 Irving St. is the proposed site for a 98-unit affordable housing project in the Sunset. | Photo by Camille Cohen</figcaption></figure>

At Wednesday’s meeting, dozens of callers voiced support for the development, saying it was sorely needed to address rising unaffordability and housing instability for working-class and lower-income families. Of the 98 proposed units, half are targeted specifically at families earning between $27,000 and $102,000 annually.&nbsp;&nbsp;

At Wednesday’s meeting, dozens of callers voiced support for the development, saying it was sorely needed to address rising unaffordability and housing instability for working-class and lower-income families. Of the 98 proposed units, half are targeted specifically at families earning between $27,000 and $102,000 annually.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I believe that affordable housing is the solution to combat the homelessness situation in the city,” said Julie Fong, who described herself as a Sunset resident and third-generation San Franciscan. “We have become a city with a reputation for unhoused people that we have more than enough power to help&#8230;please do the right thing.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I believe that affordable housing is the solution to combat the homelessness situation in the city,” said Julie Fong, who described herself as a Sunset resident and third-generation San Franciscan. “We have become a city with a reputation for unhoused people that we have more than enough power to help...please do the right thing.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I believe that affordable housing is the solution to combat the homelessness situation in the city,” said Julie Fong, who described herself as a Sunset resident and third-generation San Franciscan. “We have become a city with a reputation for unhoused people that we have more than enough power to help&#8230;please do the right thing.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Opponents of the project cited a range of concerns: the impact on parking and congestion, a loss of sunlight, a lack of aesthetic appeal to the surrounding neighborhood and a toxin called Tetrachloroethene—common at former dry cleaning sites—which was found during an environmental review.&nbsp;

Opponents of the project cited a range of concerns: the impact on parking and congestion, a loss of sunlight, a lack of aesthetic appeal to the surrounding neighborhood and a toxin called Tetrachloroethene—common at former dry cleaning sites—which was found during an environmental review.&nbsp;

<figure class="wp-block-image"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Y_zroDBUuQM-DPU61a4gPuQYFhmw1gUUfkUGMyd6hBJpovetzXLYvRNtlVNsQ5ubNvrMrF73uVIL-MVC5QKzCkj956BMIi7qs9mrbGwZ-0ECLdZMZ1lylLqwSwGCWYstX-S8sw71" alt=""/><figcaption>Robert Ho shares his concerns about the 2550 Irving St. affordable housing project on July 10, 2021. Sunset District community members gathered inside the Way Mei School to discuss affordable housing. | Photo by Camille Cohen</figcaption></figure>

The developer, Tenderloin Neighborhood Development Corporation (TNDC), plans to acquire the site using loans from the city and other financiers and develop the 2550 Irving housing project over the next several years. A two-story, vacant building will be demolished and replaced with the seven-story, multifamily complex at a total cost of $94,064,992, or nearly $1 million per unit.&nbsp;

The developer, Tenderloin Neighborhood Development Corporation (TNDC), plans to acquire the site using loans from the city and other financiers and develop the 2550 Irving housing project over the next several years. A two-story, vacant building will be demolished and replaced with the seven-story, multifamily complex at a total cost of $94,064,992, or nearly $1 million per unit.&nbsp;

“Overall, for family housing the total development costs will be higher than a project for just single individuals because of the greater amount of bedrooms,” said Amy Chan, a director at the Mayor’s Office of Housing and Community Development, in response to questions about the seemingly high sticker price.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Overall, for family housing the total development costs will be higher than a project for just single individuals because of the greater amount of bedrooms,” said Amy Chan, a director at the Mayor’s Office of Housing and Community Development, in response to questions about the seemingly high sticker price.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

As part of the pre-development process, land developers must also conduct an environmental review of the site, disclose any potentially harmful chemicals and come up with a plan for containment or remediation. Discovery of toxins is common in housing development, and in California, developers submit remediation plans for review to the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) for approval. TNDC expects that its remediation plan, which involves simply wrapping any toxic elements with safe materials, will satisfy any regulatory requirements.&nbsp;

As part of the pre-development process, land developers must also conduct an environmental review of the site, disclose any potentially harmful chemicals and come up with a plan for containment or remediation. Discovery of toxins is common in housing development, and in California, developers submit remediation plans for review to the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) for approval. TNDC expects that its remediation plan, which involves simply wrapping any toxic elements with safe materials, will satisfy any regulatory requirements.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, Supervisor Gordon Mar asked the budget committee to delay approval of the loan until DTSC approves the remediation plan, saying that the neighborhood needs to “get the details right.”&nbsp;

On Wednesday, Supervisor Gordon Mar asked the budget committee to delay approval of the loan until DTSC approves the remediation plan, saying that the neighborhood needs to “get the details right.”&nbsp;

<figure class="wp-block-image"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/RC3U4ZzshK_zH3ZOtMdChKlE2C0VYQScYVBA-JbaUIn9E_1lFJsFf3d6SGhVqaIFY-5jdIYDaQJFRCZGO86i9w62XIGFxnC5SVup5gVTFrXNMxFT8IMUGZ7vaFOGMeJWVQ1Zi-ll" alt=""/><figcaption>Supervisor Gordon Mar attends a community meeting to discuss the proposed Sunset Chinese Cultural District, affordable housing and community safety on July 10, 2021. | Photo by Camille Cohen</figcaption></figure>

That request was denied by Supervisors Matt Haney and Ahsha Safai, who said that the city urgently needs affordable housing and that smaller plans won’t make sense financially for developers. In addition to funding from San Francisco, TNDC will likely acquire matching funds from the state and federal governments to develop the affordable project.&nbsp;

That request was denied by Supervisors Matt Haney and Ahsha Safai, who said that the city urgently needs affordable housing and that smaller plans won’t make sense financially for developers. In addition to funding from San Francisco, TNDC will likely acquire matching funds from the state and federal governments to develop the affordable project.&nbsp;

The 2550 Irving project is expected to move more quickly than prior, similarly-sized developments in San Francisco under <a href="https://sfplanning.org/resource/sb35-application">Senate Bill 35</a>, a bill enacted three years ago that streamlines approvals for affordable housing projects.&nbsp;For multifamily projects that meet a certain threshold of affordability, and are already zoned in residential areas, SB35 requires an approval process of 90 days or less.

The 2550 Irving project is expected to move more quickly than prior, similarly-sized developments in San Francisco under <a href="https://sfplanning.org/resource/sb35-application">Senate Bill 35</a>, a bill enacted three years ago that streamlines approvals for affordable housing projects.&nbsp;For multifamily projects that meet a certain threshold of affordability, and are already zoned in residential areas, SB35 requires an approval process of 90 days or less.

San Francisco, along with California at large, is facing a protracted housing crunch that disproportionately burdens middle and low-income households.&nbsp;

San Francisco, along with California at large, is facing a protracted housing crunch that disproportionately burdens middle and low-income households.&nbsp;

Residential permit approvals plunged during COVID-19, according to the <a href="https://www.publiccommentsf.com/post/mayor-breed-pledges-ballot-measures-to-boost-housing-small-business">Construction Industry Research Board</a>. In San Francisco, just 2,192 residential permits were approved last year, compared to 3,343 in 2019.

Residential permit approvals plunged during COVID-19, according to the <a href="https://www.publiccommentsf.com/post/mayor-breed-pledges-ballot-measures-to-boost-housing-small-business">Construction Industry Research Board</a>. In San Francisco, just 2,192 residential permits were approved last year, compared to 3,343 in 2019.

The city must amp up housing production over the next decade to meet a state mandate called the <a href="https://abag.ca.gov/our-work/housing/rhna-regional-housing-needs-allocation">Regional Housing Needs Allocation</a>. Under that mandate, San Francisco will likely be required to produce about 82,000 housing units suitable for varying income levels between 2023 and 2031.

The city must amp up housing production over the next decade to meet a state mandate called the <a href="https://abag.ca.gov/our-work/housing/rhna-regional-housing-needs-allocation">Regional Housing Needs Allocation</a>. Under that mandate, San Francisco will likely be required to produce about 82,000 housing units suitable for varying income levels between 2023 and 2031.

In the meantime, San Francisco’s Planning Department is hammering out the details of a so-called Housing Element, or a local plan to meet the RHNA mandate. That plan will be finalized in 2022.&nbsp;

In the meantime, San Francisco’s Planning Department is hammering out the details of a so-called Housing Element, or a local plan to meet the RHNA mandate. That plan will be finalized in 2022.&nbsp;

Hotly contested sunset housing development gets rubber stamp from Board of Supervisors

The San Francisco Board of Supervisors kicked off the process of wrangling and finalizing the city’s budget with the first in a series of hearings that will determine where billions of dollars will go over the next two years.&nbsp;

The San Francisco Board of Supervisors kicked off the process of wrangling and finalizing the city’s budget with the first in a series of hearings that will determine where billions of dollars will go over the next two years.&nbsp;

At a budget committee meeting on Wednesday, Supervisors Matt Haney, Hillary Ronen and Gordon Mar heard presentations from City Controller Ben Rosenfield and Ashley Groffenberger, budget director for Mayor London Breed, who gave a breakdown of the city’s revenue outlook and the allocations proposed in the mayor’s budget.&nbsp;

At a budget committee meeting on Wednesday, Supervisors Matt Haney, Hillary Ronen and Gordon Mar heard presentations from City Controller Ben Rosenfield and Ashley Groffenberger, budget director for Mayor London Breed, who gave a breakdown of the city’s revenue outlook and the allocations proposed in the mayor’s budget.&nbsp;

Breed’s budget proposal, which she <a href="https://sfstandard.com/mayor-breed-unveils-13-billion-budget-aimed-at-equitable-recovery/">previewed last week</a>, sets aside $13.1 billion for the fiscal year ending in 2022 and $12.8 billion for the following year. San Francisco operates on a two-year budget cycle, and its fiscal years end in July.&nbsp;

Breed’s budget proposal, which she <a href="https://sfstandard.com/mayor-breed-unveils-13-billion-budget-aimed-at-equitable-recovery/">previewed last week</a>, sets aside $13.1 billion for the fiscal year ending in 2022 and $12.8 billion for the following year. San Francisco operates on a two-year budget cycle, and its fiscal years end in July.&nbsp;

“We have the chance to make a fundamental change,” said Breed of her proposal, which has a particular focus on COVID-19 recovery and response, public safety and homelessness.&nbsp;

“We have the chance to make a fundamental change,” said Breed of her proposal, which has a particular focus on COVID-19 recovery and response, public safety and homelessness.&nbsp;

Among the notable line items are $1 billion to create new placements for homeless individuals and families, $300 million for behavioral health services and millions in funding for alternative public safety programs such as<a href="https://www.publiccommentsf.com/post/san-francisco-to-boost-police-safety-patrols-in-tenderloin-and-mid-market"> </a>street <a href="https://www.publiccommentsf.com/post/plan-to-revive-san-francisco-s-deserted-downtown-takes-shape">ambassadors in the downtown area </a>and additional street crisis response teams. The budget also proposes a new Office of Justice Innovation that would be housed within the Mayor’s Office, various tax and fee waivers for businesses and low-income individuals, and other economic and workforce initiatives.

Among the notable line items are $1 billion to create new placements for homeless individuals and families, $300 million for behavioral health services and millions in funding for alternative public safety programs such as<a href="https://www.publiccommentsf.com/post/san-francisco-to-boost-police-safety-patrols-in-tenderloin-and-mid-market"> </a>street <a href="https://www.publiccommentsf.com/post/plan-to-revive-san-francisco-s-deserted-downtown-takes-shape">ambassadors in the downtown area </a>and additional street crisis response teams. The budget also proposes a new Office of Justice Innovation that would be housed within the Mayor’s Office, various tax and fee waivers for businesses and low-income individuals, and other economic and workforce initiatives.

Supervisor Ronen, who represents District 9, raised concerns about “duplication” of services between some of the items in Breed’s budget and <a href="https://www.mentalhealthsf.org/">Mental Health SF</a>, an initiative passed in 2019 that seeks to create, among other things, a central coordinating center for mental health services in the city.&nbsp;

Supervisor Ronen, who represents District 9, raised concerns about “duplication” of services between some of the items in Breed’s budget and <a href="https://www.mentalhealthsf.org/">Mental Health SF</a>, an initiative passed in 2019 that seeks to create, among other things, a central coordinating center for mental health services in the city.&nbsp;

“I’m not exactly sure what the purpose is,” said Ronen, speaking of the proposed Office of Justice Innovation. “We’re creating all of these random street teams, and a whole new unit within the Mayor’s Office and I’m worried we’re falling back into old habits.”&nbsp;

“I’m not exactly sure what the purpose is,” said Ronen, speaking of the proposed Office of Justice Innovation. “We’re creating all of these random street teams, and a whole new unit within the Mayor’s Office and I’m worried we’re falling back into old habits.”&nbsp;

Supervisors also questioned the level of funding for law enforcement in the mayor’s budget.&nbsp;

Supervisors also questioned the level of funding for law enforcement in the mayor’s budget.&nbsp;

Breed’s proposal calls for stabilization of San Francisco’s police force, including two academy classes to replace the roughly 80 who retire or leave each year. Supervisor Mar asked how soon the new alternative safety programs, such as street response teams, would result in a reduced need for police officers.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Breed’s proposal calls for stabilization of San Francisco’s police force, including two academy classes to replace the roughly 80 who retire or leave each year. Supervisor Mar asked how soon the new alternative safety programs, such as street response teams, would result in a reduced need for police officers.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Prior to Wednesday’s hearing, the Board of Supervisors published a list of 386 <a href="https://sfbos.org/sites/default/files/Public%20List%20of%20Budget%20Requests%20-%20Updated%206.9.21%20-%20Citywide%20Requests.pdf">budget requests</a> totaling $545 million in the upcoming year. Those requests run the gamut, ranging from $25 million to finance affordable housing projects to smaller line items, such as $25,000 to fund a native plant garden at McLaren Park.&nbsp;

Prior to Wednesday’s hearing, the Board of Supervisors published a list of 386 <a href="https://sfbos.org/sites/default/files/Public%20List%20of%20Budget%20Requests%20-%20Updated%206.9.21%20-%20Citywide%20Requests.pdf">budget requests</a> totaling $545 million in the upcoming year. Those requests run the gamut, ranging from $25 million to finance affordable housing projects to smaller line items, such as $25,000 to fund a native plant garden at McLaren Park.&nbsp;

Primarily due to federal funding—the city is set to receive about $625 million in COVID-19 recovery funds—San Francisco budget officials were able to balance the city’s budget over the next two years. But there’s still a great degree of uncertainty over what <a href="https://www.publiccommentsf.com/post/sf-s-budget-surplus-grows-but-big-risks-remain">the local revenue picture</a> will look like after that, and how quickly key sources of tax dollars will recover as federal funds dry up.

Primarily due to federal funding—the city is set to receive about $625 million in COVID-19 recovery funds—San Francisco budget officials were able to balance the city’s budget over the next two years. But there’s still a great degree of uncertainty over what <a href="https://www.publiccommentsf.com/post/sf-s-budget-surplus-grows-but-big-risks-remain">the local revenue picture</a> will look like after that, and how quickly key sources of tax dollars will recover as federal funds dry up.

“Business and hotel [taxes] have a long way to recover,” said Carol Lu, a revenue manager at the Controller’s Office, noting that hotel taxes may not recover to pre-pandemic levels until 2025 or 2026. The office is also expecting 25 percent of the city’s workforce to telecommute permanently, which may affect business taxes long-term.&nbsp;

“Business and hotel [taxes] have a long way to recover,” said Carol Lu, a revenue manager at the Controller’s Office, noting that hotel taxes may not recover to pre-pandemic levels until 2025 or 2026. The office is also expecting 25 percent of the city’s workforce to telecommute permanently, which may affect business taxes long-term.&nbsp;

Another risk is FEMA reimbursement for emergency expenses San Francisco incurred during the pandemic. The city is currently expecting reimbursement of $430 million for disaster costs, including a shelter-in-place program for unhoused individuals that will begin winding down this year.&nbsp;

Another risk is FEMA reimbursement for emergency expenses San Francisco incurred during the pandemic. The city is currently expecting reimbursement of $430 million for disaster costs, including a shelter-in-place program for unhoused individuals that will begin winding down this year.&nbsp;

However, the federal agency undergoes a lengthy process of evaluating, approving and auditing claims—and it’s not uncommon for FEMA to deny some of the reimbursement claims in the end, said City Controller Rosenfield. Either way, it may take years to get clarity on how much of that $430 million San Francisco will actually receive.&nbsp;

However, the federal agency undergoes a lengthy process of evaluating, approving and auditing claims—and it’s not uncommon for FEMA to deny some of the reimbursement claims in the end, said City Controller Rosenfield. Either way, it may take years to get clarity on how much of that $430 million San Francisco will actually receive.&nbsp;

“They have a huge amount of claims coming in from all over the country, and it’s going to take some time,” said Rosenfield. “For the Loma Prieta earthquake, it took almost a decade to clear all the [claims].”&nbsp;

“They have a huge amount of claims coming in from all over the country, and it’s going to take some time,” said Rosenfield. “For the Loma Prieta earthquake, it took almost a decade to clear all the [claims].”&nbsp;

Over the next three weeks, the Mayor and the Board of Supervisors will remediate the differing budget proposals, starting with a series of presentations from individual city departments next week.

Over the next three weeks, the Mayor and the Board of Supervisors will remediate the differing budget proposals, starting with a series of presentations from individual city departments next week.

Hearings and negotiations will culminate in a day of public comment on June 25, followed by final budget deliberations <a href="https://sfbos.org/sites/default/files/Budget_Hearing_Calendar.pdf">scheduled for</a> June 28. Mayor Breed will sign the budget by August 1.

Hearings and negotiations will culminate in a day of public comment on June 25, followed by final budget deliberations <a href="https://sfbos.org/sites/default/files/Budget_Hearing_Calendar.pdf">scheduled for</a> June 28. Mayor Breed will sign the budget by August 1.

San Francisco Board of Supervisors kicks off $13B budget negotiations

Sameea Kamal at CalMatters

Another coronavirus variant spreading like wildfire, and another huge state budget surplus: In some ways, 2022 is off to a similar start as 2021.&nbsp;

Another coronavirus variant spreading like wildfire, and another huge state budget surplus: In some ways, 2022 is off to a similar start as 2021.&nbsp;

That could carry over to the state Legislature’s new session starting today. In addition to the pandemic and surplus, California is dealing with some of the same big issues it has long grappled with, including housing and climate change.&nbsp;

That could carry over to the state Legislature’s new session starting today. In addition to the pandemic and surplus, California is dealing with some of the same big issues it has long grappled with, including housing and climate change.&nbsp;

“Our challenges continue to be the challenges that we have started and built momentum to work towards,” Senate President Pro Tem Toni Atkins, a San Diego Democrat, told CalMatters.&nbsp;

“Our challenges continue to be the challenges that we have started and built momentum to work towards,” Senate President Pro Tem Toni Atkins, a San Diego Democrat, told CalMatters.&nbsp;

The difference? Looking at key issues more through a lens of equity, she said.

The difference? Looking at key issues more through a lens of equity, she said.

The state Assembly’s agenda shares those priorities, said Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon, a Lakewood Democrat. Access to health care will be another focus: “We’re proud of where we are as a state, but we need to make sure that everybody in the state is covered.”&nbsp;

The state Assembly’s agenda shares those priorities, said Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon, a Lakewood Democrat. Access to health care will be another focus: “We’re proud of where we are as a state, but we need to make sure that everybody in the state is covered.”&nbsp;

Where will things look a little different? The state Capitol complex is undergoing renovations, which means the “<a href="https://www.sacbee.com/news/politics-government/capitol-alert/article255966717.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bacteria Bear</a>” is safely in storage for now.

Where will things look a little different? The state Capitol complex is undergoing renovations, which means the “<a href="https://www.sacbee.com/news/politics-government/capitol-alert/article255966717.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bacteria Bear</a>” is safely in storage for now.

The public and press will be allowed to attend in person, but due to COVID, access and seating will continue to be limited,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.ca.gov/pdfpublications/dailyfile">masks and social distancing will be required</a>&nbsp;and meetings will continue to be livestreamed. “We had hoped that as we go back, we’d be through the pandemic, but it hasn’t gone away,” Atkins said. “We’re going to have to continue to bear that in mind.”

The public and press will be allowed to attend in person, but due to COVID, access and seating will continue to be limited,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.ca.gov/pdfpublications/dailyfile">masks and social distancing will be required</a>&nbsp;and meetings will continue to be livestreamed. “We had hoped that as we go back, we’d be through the pandemic, but it hasn’t gone away,” Atkins said. “We’re going to have to continue to bear that in mind.”

There’s also the makeup of the Legislature itself. Following the redistricting process after the 2020 census, state Senate and Assembly district lines have been shaken up — and a number of lawmakers will be lame ducks this session because they’re not running for re-election in 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;

There’s also the makeup of the Legislature itself. Following the redistricting process after the 2020 census, state Senate and Assembly district lines have been shaken up — and a number of lawmakers will be lame ducks this session because they’re not running for re-election in 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Here are four themes to watch in the new legislative session:

Here are four themes to watch in the new legislative session:

<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cash-rules">Cash rules</h3>

core/heading

<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cash-rules">Cash rules</h3>

Compared to the&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/politics/2021/06/california-newsom-budget-deal/">$76 billion surplus from 2021</a>, California is&nbsp;<a href="https://lao.ca.gov/Publications/Report/4472">projecting a $31 billion surplus</a>&nbsp;in the general fund, plus $20 billion in Proposition 98 funding for education.&nbsp;

Compared to the&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/politics/2021/06/california-newsom-budget-deal/">$76 billion surplus from 2021</a>, California is&nbsp;<a href="https://lao.ca.gov/Publications/Report/4472">projecting a $31 billion surplus</a>&nbsp;in the general fund, plus $20 billion in Proposition 98 funding for education.&nbsp;

The windfall is fueled, like last year,&nbsp;<a href="https://lao.ca.gov/LAOEconTax/Article/Detail/712?utm_source=t.co&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=outlook">with tax revenue</a>&nbsp;and federal funds. In addition, the November&nbsp;<a href="https://t.co/71drM5nRmQ">cap-and-trade auction</a>&nbsp;generated $732 million, according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://lao.ca.gov/Publications/Report/4480?utm_source=t.co&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=4480">Legislative Analyst’s Office</a>.&nbsp;

The windfall is fueled, like last year,&nbsp;<a href="https://lao.ca.gov/LAOEconTax/Article/Detail/712?utm_source=t.co&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=outlook">with tax revenue</a>&nbsp;and federal funds. In addition, the November&nbsp;<a href="https://t.co/71drM5nRmQ">cap-and-trade auction</a>&nbsp;generated $732 million, according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://lao.ca.gov/Publications/Report/4480?utm_source=t.co&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=4480">Legislative Analyst’s Office</a>.&nbsp;

In his budget proposal that is due by Jan. 10, Gov. Gavin Newsom has vowed to include&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/politics/2021/12/california-crime-newsom-budget/">more than $350 million to stop organized retail thefts</a>, plus more money for&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/newsletters/whatmatters/2021/12/governor-newsom-budget-priority/">dyslexia programs after authoring a children’s book</a>&nbsp;on his own battles. He’s also hinted that he’ll include&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/newsletters/whatmatters/2021/11/california-stimulus-checks/">another round of stimulus checks</a>.

In his budget proposal that is due by Jan. 10, Gov. Gavin Newsom has vowed to include&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/politics/2021/12/california-crime-newsom-budget/">more than $350 million to stop organized retail thefts</a>, plus more money for&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/newsletters/whatmatters/2021/12/governor-newsom-budget-priority/">dyslexia programs after authoring a children’s book</a>&nbsp;on his own battles. He’s also hinted that he’ll include&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/newsletters/whatmatters/2021/11/california-stimulus-checks/">another round of stimulus checks</a>.

Neither of the spending priority lists put out by Senate or&nbsp;<a href="https://a19.asmdc.org/sites/a19.asmdc.org/files/2021-12/2022%20Budget%20Blueprint%20FNL_0.pdf">Assembly leaders</a>&nbsp;mention a stimulus check. Instead, they are framing the budget around a more inclusive economic recovery and a more equitable economy.

Neither of the spending priority lists put out by Senate or&nbsp;<a href="https://a19.asmdc.org/sites/a19.asmdc.org/files/2021-12/2022%20Budget%20Blueprint%20FNL_0.pdf">Assembly leaders</a>&nbsp;mention a stimulus check. Instead, they are framing the budget around a more inclusive economic recovery and a more equitable economy.

<a href="https://sd39.senate.ca.gov/news/20211208-senate-budget-key-values-focus-putting-california%E2%80%99s-wealth-work-more-equitable-economy">Atkins said</a> California’s economy is strong, but that&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/california-divide/2021/12/california-racial-inequality-budget/">wealth needs to be put to work</a>.

<a href="https://sd39.senate.ca.gov/news/20211208-senate-budget-key-values-focus-putting-california%E2%80%99s-wealth-work-more-equitable-economy">Atkins said</a> California’s economy is strong, but that&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/california-divide/2021/12/california-racial-inequality-budget/">wealth needs to be put to work</a>.

“Those at the top are doing better than ever before, and that’s good for California in terms of our revenue,” Atkins said in an interview. “But as strong as the economy is, we face a homelessness crisis that you see every day in every corner of the state. And we know how hard it is for everyday, ordinary families to get by.”

“Those at the top are doing better than ever before, and that’s good for California in terms of our revenue,” Atkins said in an interview. “But as strong as the economy is, we face a homelessness crisis that you see every day in every corner of the state. And we know how hard it is for everyday, ordinary families to get by.”

The&nbsp;<a href="https://sbud.senate.ca.gov/sites/sbud.senate.ca.gov/files/1208-SenateBudgetPlan-Step1.pdf">Senate plan builds&nbsp;on</a>&nbsp;2021 programs, including targeted relief such as the child tax credit, Earned Income Tax Credit&nbsp;and small business aid.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;<a href="https://sbud.senate.ca.gov/sites/sbud.senate.ca.gov/files/1208-SenateBudgetPlan-Step1.pdf">Senate plan builds&nbsp;on</a>&nbsp;2021 programs, including targeted relief such as the child tax credit, Earned Income Tax Credit&nbsp;and small business aid.&nbsp;

Senate and Assembly leaders also say they will seek to put more money into K-12 schools and higher education, and look to maintain the state’s reserves “to protect the progress we are making from future downturns,” per Atkins. Last year, the Legislature was able to maintain&nbsp;<a href="https://calbudgetcenter.org/resources/analysis-2021-22-state-budget/">$25 billion in reserves</a>.

Senate and Assembly leaders also say they will seek to put more money into K-12 schools and higher education, and look to maintain the state’s reserves “to protect the progress we are making from future downturns,” per Atkins. Last year, the Legislature was able to maintain&nbsp;<a href="https://calbudgetcenter.org/resources/analysis-2021-22-state-budget/">$25 billion in reserves</a>.

Rendon said that the budget surplus would enable California to “rebuild infrastructure in every corner of the state.”&nbsp;Meanwhile, Senate Republicans are calling for $3.3 billion to be spent on water projects, most of which would go to the contentious Sites Reservoir.&nbsp;

Rendon said that the budget surplus would enable California to “rebuild infrastructure in every corner of the state.”&nbsp;Meanwhile, Senate Republicans are calling for $3.3 billion to be spent on water projects, most of which would go to the contentious Sites Reservoir.&nbsp;

Expending one-time funds on infrastructure would help the Legislature avoid exceeding the&nbsp;<a href="https://lao.ca.gov/reports/2021/4416/SAL-042121.pdf">Gann Limit</a>, which requires that when the state hits a spending revenue threshold two years in a row, the excess money must be reimbursed to taxpayers or spent on schools. Revenue spent on building reserves and paying off debt is excluded from the limit.&nbsp;

Expending one-time funds on infrastructure would help the Legislature avoid exceeding the&nbsp;<a href="https://lao.ca.gov/reports/2021/4416/SAL-042121.pdf">Gann Limit</a>, which requires that when the state hits a spending revenue threshold two years in a row, the excess money must be reimbursed to taxpayers or spent on schools. Revenue spent on building reserves and paying off debt is excluded from the limit.&nbsp;

<a href="https://twitter.com/jasonsisney/status/1468262450516561927?s=20">Jason Sisney</a>, Rendon’s budget advisor, noted that the Gann limit did not kick in last year, despite the historic surplus.&nbsp;

<a href="https://twitter.com/jasonsisney/status/1468262450516561927?s=20">Jason Sisney</a>, Rendon’s budget advisor, noted that the Gann limit did not kick in last year, despite the historic surplus.&nbsp;

Assembly Budget Chairperson Phil Ting, a San Francisco Democrat,&nbsp;<a href="https://a19.asmdc.org/press-releases/20211209-assembly-budget-blueprint-aims-deliver-prosperity-more-californians-while">told reporters last month</a>&nbsp;that with less money than last year to expand programs, the Legislature is likely to employ more creative one-time funding measures, including on transportation and transit, which didn’t receive as much funding in 2021.

Assembly Budget Chairperson Phil Ting, a San Francisco Democrat,&nbsp;<a href="https://a19.asmdc.org/press-releases/20211209-assembly-budget-blueprint-aims-deliver-prosperity-more-californians-while">told reporters last month</a>&nbsp;that with less money than last year to expand programs, the Legislature is likely to employ more creative one-time funding measures, including on transportation and transit, which didn’t receive as much funding in 2021.

“We’re definitely not back towards normal, but as we sort of come out of the pandemic a little bit, it’s not exactly clear where the best investments are and where the biggest impact is,” Ting said. “This is what the budget process is for. We have from now ’til June to really identify where we can make the biggest impact.”

“We’re definitely not back towards normal, but as we sort of come out of the pandemic a little bit, it’s not exactly clear where the best investments are and where the biggest impact is,” Ting said. “This is what the budget process is for. We have from now ’til June to really identify where we can make the biggest impact.”

And while there is a budget surplus, Rendon said one challenge this year is to make sure that the Legislature is fiscally responsible, and that big and small cities alike get their fair share.

And while there is a budget surplus, Rendon said one challenge this year is to make sure that the Legislature is fiscally responsible, and that big and small cities alike get their fair share.

<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Guns and abortion</h3>

In the final weeks of 2021, two hot-button issues reemerged and landed squarely on the legislative agenda.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

In the final weeks of 2021, two hot-button issues reemerged and landed squarely on the legislative agenda.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

While California already has some of the&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/explainers/california-gun-laws-policy-explained/">nation’s toughest gun control laws</a>, some are tied up in court. So Newsom&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/GavinNewsom/status/1469865185493983234">went after guns and tied the issue to abortion</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While California already has some of the&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/explainers/california-gun-laws-policy-explained/">nation’s toughest gun control laws</a>, some are tied up in court. So Newsom&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/GavinNewsom/status/1469865185493983234">went after guns and tied the issue to abortion</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

He took a page from Texas’ playbook after the U.S. Supreme Court allowed that state’s ban on abortions after six weeks of pregnancy to stand in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/21pdf/21-463_3ebh.pdf">December ruling</a>. Newsom vowed to work with state lawmakers and Attorney General Rob Bonta —&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/politics/2021/03/newsom-picks-rob-bonta-as-californias-new-attorney-general/">whom he appointed</a>&nbsp;— to draft a bill that would allow private citizens to sue anyone who manufactures, distributes or sells illegal assault weapons or “ghost” guns, modeling it after Texas’&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-supreme-court-texas-56fe96917e21b53b581005cb30db66e0">unusually structured abortion law</a>.&nbsp;

He took a page from Texas’ playbook after the U.S. Supreme Court allowed that state’s ban on abortions after six weeks of pregnancy to stand in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/21pdf/21-463_3ebh.pdf">December ruling</a>. Newsom vowed to work with state lawmakers and Attorney General Rob Bonta —&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/politics/2021/03/newsom-picks-rob-bonta-as-californias-new-attorney-general/">whom he appointed</a>&nbsp;— to draft a bill that would allow private citizens to sue anyone who manufactures, distributes or sells illegal assault weapons or “ghost” guns, modeling it after Texas’&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-supreme-court-texas-56fe96917e21b53b581005cb30db66e0">unusually structured abortion law</a>.&nbsp;

The Texas abortion law has also prompted advocates and lawmakers to double down on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kqed.org/news/11898317/with-abortion-rights-threatened-45-recommendations-for-improving-access-in-california">abortion access in California</a>.&nbsp;

The Texas abortion law has also prompted advocates and lawmakers to double down on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kqed.org/news/11898317/with-abortion-rights-threatened-45-recommendations-for-improving-access-in-california">abortion access in California</a>.&nbsp;

A task force appointed by Newsom is recommending measures to&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/newsletters/whatmatters/2021/12/california-abortion-newsom/">make California a “sanctuary state” for abortions</a>, including helping to pay for the procedure, along with travel, lodging and other costs for women who come to California because their states limit access.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

A task force appointed by Newsom is recommending measures to&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/newsletters/whatmatters/2021/12/california-abortion-newsom/">make California a “sanctuary state” for abortions</a>, including helping to pay for the procedure, along with travel, lodging and other costs for women who come to California because their states limit access.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Potentially, that could be tens of millions of dollars in state taxpayer money. If the U.S. Supreme Court effectively repeals Roe vs. Wade next summer,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.guttmacher.org/article/2021/10/26-states-are-certain-or-likely-ban-abortion-without-roe-heres-which-ones-and-why">advocates say that</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.guttmacher.org/article/2021/10/26-states-are-certain-or-likely-ban-abortion-without-roe-heres-which-ones-and-why">could lead to 26 states</a>&nbsp;immediately banning or severely limiting abortions. California would then become the closest state with broad abortion access within driving distance for 1.4 million women.

Potentially, that could be tens of millions of dollars in state taxpayer money. If the U.S. Supreme Court effectively repeals Roe vs. Wade next summer,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.guttmacher.org/article/2021/10/26-states-are-certain-or-likely-ban-abortion-without-roe-heres-which-ones-and-why">advocates say that</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.guttmacher.org/article/2021/10/26-states-are-certain-or-likely-ban-abortion-without-roe-heres-which-ones-and-why">could lead to 26 states</a>&nbsp;immediately banning or severely limiting abortions. California would then become the closest state with broad abortion access within driving distance for 1.4 million women.

<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Other issues</h3>

On other issues such as housing and climate change mitigation, legislative leaders said they plan to see through the investments they made last year.

On other issues such as housing and climate change mitigation, legislative leaders said they plan to see through the investments they made last year.

That includes more affordable housing for families, as well as more permanent and temporary supportive housing for homeless people. To figure out what’s working and what’s not, Rendon said incoming Assembly Housing Committee chairperson Buffy Wicks, an Oakland Democrat, will review accountability of state programs on housing,&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/housing/2021/09/california-eviction-moratorium-rent-relief/">rent relief</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/housing/homeless/2021/11/california-homeless-camps-clearing-plan/">homelessness</a>.

That includes more affordable housing for families, as well as more permanent and temporary supportive housing for homeless people. To figure out what’s working and what’s not, Rendon said incoming Assembly Housing Committee chairperson Buffy Wicks, an Oakland Democrat, will review accountability of state programs on housing,&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/housing/2021/09/california-eviction-moratorium-rent-relief/">rent relief</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/housing/homeless/2021/11/california-homeless-camps-clearing-plan/">homelessness</a>.

“We’re kind of hesitant to change our approach drastically,” Rendon said. “We’ve invested again,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gov.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/HOMELESSNESS-CRISIS-FACT-SHEET.pdf">$12 billion over two years</a>. Rather than continually changing our ways of dealing with homelessness, if there are mid-course corrections that need to be made then we should do that.”

“We’re kind of hesitant to change our approach drastically,” Rendon said. “We’ve invested again,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gov.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/HOMELESSNESS-CRISIS-FACT-SHEET.pdf">$12 billion over two years</a>. Rather than continually changing our ways of dealing with homelessness, if there are mid-course corrections that need to be made then we should do that.”

As part of bolstering California’s safety net, both chambers plan to continue investments in public health. Legislators are also expected to revisit single-payer health care — one of&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/politics/2021/02/newsom-single-payer-health-care-dilemma/">Newsom’s campaign promises</a>&nbsp;— and a plan to create an “<a href="https://hcai.ca.gov/get-the-facts-about-the-proposed-office-of-health-care-affordability-at-oshpd/">Office of Health Care Affordability</a>” to set cost targets for health plans, hospitals, physician groups and prescription drugs.&nbsp;

As part of bolstering California’s safety net, both chambers plan to continue investments in public health. Legislators are also expected to revisit single-payer health care — one of&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/politics/2021/02/newsom-single-payer-health-care-dilemma/">Newsom’s campaign promises</a>&nbsp;— and a plan to create an “<a href="https://hcai.ca.gov/get-the-facts-about-the-proposed-office-of-health-care-affordability-at-oshpd/">Office of Health Care Affordability</a>” to set cost targets for health plans, hospitals, physician groups and prescription drugs.&nbsp;

Advocacy groups have called on Newsom to lower deductibles before&nbsp;<a href="https://cahealthadvocates.org/medi-cal-share-of-cost-needs-reform-cha-calls-on-governor-newsom/">Medi-Cal will pay the costs of healthcare</a>. Others have asked the Legislature to ensure that federal funds from the proposed&nbsp;<a href="https://cahealthadvocates.org/build-back-better-invests-in-crucial-services-for-older-adults-people-with-disabilities/">Build Back Better bill</a>&nbsp;boost programs for seniors and those with disabilities.

Advocacy groups have called on Newsom to lower deductibles before&nbsp;<a href="https://cahealthadvocates.org/medi-cal-share-of-cost-needs-reform-cha-calls-on-governor-newsom/">Medi-Cal will pay the costs of healthcare</a>. Others have asked the Legislature to ensure that federal funds from the proposed&nbsp;<a href="https://cahealthadvocates.org/build-back-better-invests-in-crucial-services-for-older-adults-people-with-disabilities/">Build Back Better bill</a>&nbsp;boost programs for seniors and those with disabilities.

<a href="https://twitter.com/LorenaSGonzalez/status/1475888907564683264?s=20">Progressives and labor groups also plan</a>&nbsp;to push to restore&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/economy/labor/2021/09/california-sick-leave-covid-extra-time-ending/">emergency paid sick leave for COVID-19, which expired Sept. 30</a>. SEIU California says that additional sick leave is even more important with shortened quarantine requirements for healthcare workers who are “being called to sacrifice and risk our lives again” despite the surge fueled by the omicron variant.&nbsp;

<a href="https://twitter.com/LorenaSGonzalez/status/1475888907564683264?s=20">Progressives and labor groups also plan</a>&nbsp;to push to restore&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/economy/labor/2021/09/california-sick-leave-covid-extra-time-ending/">emergency paid sick leave for COVID-19, which expired Sept. 30</a>. SEIU California says that additional sick leave is even more important with shortened quarantine requirements for healthcare workers who are “being called to sacrifice and risk our lives again” despite the surge fueled by the omicron variant.&nbsp;

Children are also a priority area, including investments in mental health resources for students and to address learning losses caused by the pandemic. State Sen. Nancy Skinner, a Berkeley Democrat, plans to introduce a bill to&nbsp;<a href="https://sd09.senate.ca.gov/news/20211227-skinner-will-introduce-bill-establish-hope-accounts-children-covid-victims">create savings accounts of as much as $5,000</a>&nbsp;for children whose parents died from the virus.&nbsp;Also, it’s likely that lawmakers will revisit a highly-charged debate that&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sacbee.com/news/politics-government/capitol-alert/article256750522.html">has led to death threats previously</a>: Whether to&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/education/k-12-education/2021/10/student-covid-vaccination-loophole/">narrow or eliminate the personal belief exemption</a>&nbsp;from the vaccine mandate for K-12 students and staff.

Children are also a priority area, including investments in mental health resources for students and to address learning losses caused by the pandemic. State Sen. Nancy Skinner, a Berkeley Democrat, plans to introduce a bill to&nbsp;<a href="https://sd09.senate.ca.gov/news/20211227-skinner-will-introduce-bill-establish-hope-accounts-children-covid-victims">create savings accounts of as much as $5,000</a>&nbsp;for children whose parents died from the virus.&nbsp;Also, it’s likely that lawmakers will revisit a highly-charged debate that&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sacbee.com/news/politics-government/capitol-alert/article256750522.html">has led to death threats previously</a>: Whether to&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/education/k-12-education/2021/10/student-covid-vaccination-loophole/">narrow or eliminate the personal belief exemption</a>&nbsp;from the vaccine mandate for K-12 students and staff.

Rendon, who was part of the California delegation that attended the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Scotland in November, said the Assembly also plans to ramp up its efforts to meet the state’s 2030 climate goals, including lowering carbon emissions. Rendon also said there would likely be more focus on eliminating single-use plastics, building on last year’s bills.

Rendon, who was part of the California delegation that attended the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Scotland in November, said the Assembly also plans to ramp up its efforts to meet the state’s 2030 climate goals, including lowering carbon emissions. Rendon also said there would likely be more focus on eliminating single-use plastics, building on last year’s bills.

Atkins said the Senate plans to continue finding ways to prevent wildfires and addressing drought, water and sea level rise.

Atkins said the Senate plans to continue finding ways to prevent wildfires and addressing drought, water and sea level rise.

State water agencies have also recommended updated&nbsp;<a href="https://water.ca.gov/News/News-Releases/2021/Nov-21/State-Agencies-Recommend-Indoor-Residential-Water-Use-Standard">water use efficiency goals</a>&nbsp;for water suppliers: 55 gallons per person per day by 2023, declining to 47 gallons per day by 2025, and 42 gallons by 2030. To take effect, the standards would need to be adopted by the Legislature.&nbsp;

State water agencies have also recommended updated&nbsp;<a href="https://water.ca.gov/News/News-Releases/2021/Nov-21/State-Agencies-Recommend-Indoor-Residential-Water-Use-Standard">water use efficiency goals</a>&nbsp;for water suppliers: 55 gallons per person per day by 2023, declining to 47 gallons per day by 2025, and 42 gallons by 2030. To take effect, the standards would need to be adopted by the Legislature.&nbsp;

The conversations around law enforcement and criminal justice reform are also likely to continue in 2022, including another attempt to reform cash bail after&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/election-2020-guide/proposition-25-cash-bail/">voters in 2020 overturned a more sweeping law</a>.&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/explainers/california-legislature-bills-passed-2021/">Laws passed in 2021</a>&nbsp;included allowing a state commission to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4pFBqBh2ehc">decertify police officers for wrongdoing</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wfa_M3vfpBQ">limiting police use of rubber bullets</a>&nbsp;and other less lethal weapons at protests and demonstrations.&nbsp;

The conversations around law enforcement and criminal justice reform are also likely to continue in 2022, including another attempt to reform cash bail after&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/election-2020-guide/proposition-25-cash-bail/">voters in 2020 overturned a more sweeping law</a>.&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/explainers/california-legislature-bills-passed-2021/">Laws passed in 2021</a>&nbsp;included allowing a state commission to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4pFBqBh2ehc">decertify police officers for wrongdoing</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wfa_M3vfpBQ">limiting police use of rubber bullets</a>&nbsp;and other less lethal weapons at protests and demonstrations.&nbsp;

Assembly leaders also say they plan to&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/newsletters/whatmatters/2021/10/california-edd-fixes/">increase oversight at the problem-plagued Employment Development Department</a>, including a strike team plan to help Californians receive their unemployment benefits.&nbsp;

Assembly leaders also say they plan to&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/newsletters/whatmatters/2021/10/california-edd-fixes/">increase oversight at the problem-plagued Employment Development Department</a>, including a strike team plan to help Californians receive their unemployment benefits.&nbsp;

Finally,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.assembly.ca.gov/dailyfile">legislators could reconsider</a>&nbsp;any of the&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/politics/2021/10/california-bills-newsom-vetoes/">66 bills that they passed but that Newsom vetoed</a>. But there’s little discussion of doing so. It takes a two-thirds vote of both the Assembly and Senate to override a veto and that&nbsp;<a href="https://sor.senate.ca.gov/sites/sor.senate.ca.gov/files/2391%20SOR%20report%20governors%20veto%20record%20final.pdf">hasn’t happened since 1980</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Finally,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.assembly.ca.gov/dailyfile">legislators could reconsider</a>&nbsp;any of the&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/politics/2021/10/california-bills-newsom-vetoes/">66 bills that they passed but that Newsom vetoed</a>. But there’s little discussion of doing so. It takes a two-thirds vote of both the Assembly and Senate to override a veto and that&nbsp;<a href="https://sor.senate.ca.gov/sites/sor.senate.ca.gov/files/2391%20SOR%20report%20governors%20veto%20record%20final.pdf">hasn’t happened since 1980</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hellos-and-goodbyes">Hellos and goodbyes</h3>

Say hello to your new districts, and goodbye to some lawmakers.&nbsp;

Say hello to your new districts, and goodbye to some lawmakers.&nbsp;

Following every census, state legislative and congressional boundaries are redrawn to account for population changes. On Dec. 27, the state’s independent redistricting commission&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/politics/2021/12/california-redistricting-final-maps/">certified its new maps</a>.

Following every census, state legislative and congressional boundaries are redrawn to account for population changes. On Dec. 27, the state’s independent redistricting commission&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/politics/2021/12/california-redistricting-final-maps/">certified its new maps</a>.

The commission drew the lines from scratch without taking current district lines or incumbents into account. As usual, that means there will be some musical chairs as legislators compete against fellow incumbents drawn into the same district, try to appeal to voters in a new district or decide to run for higher office.&nbsp;

The commission drew the lines from scratch without taking current district lines or incumbents into account. As usual, that means there will be some musical chairs as legislators compete against fellow incumbents drawn into the same district, try to appeal to voters in a new district or decide to run for higher office.&nbsp;

So far, 11&nbsp;legislators have announced that 2022 will be their last session and they won’t seek re-election, while seven others hit term limits. Assemblymember Lorena Gonzalez, a San Diego Democrat, announced on the first day of the new session that she’s leaving immediately to head the California Labor Foundation.

So far, 11&nbsp;legislators have announced that 2022 will be their last session and they won’t seek re-election, while seven others hit term limits. Assemblymember Lorena Gonzalez, a San Diego Democrat, announced on the first day of the new session that she’s leaving immediately to head the California Labor Foundation.

And three — Democratic Assemblymembers Ed Chau of Monterey Park in Los Angeles County, David Chiu of San Francisco and Jim Frazier of Fairfield — have already resigned, so&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sos.ca.gov/elections/upcoming-elections">there will be special elections</a>&nbsp;to replace them.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

And three — Democratic Assemblymembers Ed Chau of Monterey Park in Los Angeles County, David Chiu of San Francisco and Jim Frazier of Fairfield — have already resigned, so&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sos.ca.gov/elections/upcoming-elections">there will be special elections</a>&nbsp;to replace them.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Rendon said that not having a full slate of Assembly members can be difficult, but that he hopes all those seats are filled as soon as possible.&nbsp;

Rendon said that not having a full slate of Assembly members can be difficult, but that he hopes all those seats are filled as soon as possible.&nbsp;

“It’s difficult from the standpoint that they’re friends, it’s hard to see them go,” said Rendon. “At the same time, we’ve had a tremendous amount of turnover, and that’s brought on freshmen, and opportunities for people like Mia Bonta, Akilah Weber and ​​Isaac Bryan. The freshmen have a lot to offer as well, and the turnover also offers opportunities for new chairs and leadership.”&nbsp;

“It’s difficult from the standpoint that they’re friends, it’s hard to see them go,” said Rendon. “At the same time, we’ve had a tremendous amount of turnover, and that’s brought on freshmen, and opportunities for people like Mia Bonta, Akilah Weber and ​​Isaac Bryan. The freshmen have a lot to offer as well, and the turnover also offers opportunities for new chairs and leadership.”&nbsp;

Rendon also reaffirmed that he isn’t planning to step aside early: “I’ve got a job to do, and I’ll do it until 2024.”&nbsp;

Rendon also reaffirmed that he isn’t planning to step aside early: “I’ve got a job to do, and I’ll do it until 2024.”&nbsp;

The California Legislature is back: What to expect in 2022

Sophie Bearman

A signature-gathering effort at a local farmer’s market grew contentious after a bystander attempted to steal signed recall petitions from a volunteer on Sunday, according to eyewitness accounts.&nbsp;

A signature-gathering effort at a local farmer’s market grew contentious after a bystander attempted to steal signed recall petitions from a volunteer on Sunday, according to eyewitness accounts.&nbsp;

Man Kit Lam, a volunteer for the campaign to recall three members of the San Francisco Board of Education, said that the alleged thief, described by witnesses as a male appearing to be in his 20s and wearing red glasses, tried to steal roughly 20 signed petitions from his table at 3rd Avenue and Clement Street on Sunday. As Lam turned to assist another signator, the suspect grabbed and walked away with at least one clipboard full of signed recall petitions, he said.

Man Kit Lam, a volunteer for the campaign to recall three members of the San Francisco Board of Education, said that the alleged thief, described by witnesses as a male appearing to be in his 20s and wearing red glasses, tried to steal roughly 20 signed petitions from his table at 3rd Avenue and Clement Street on Sunday. As Lam turned to assist another signator, the suspect grabbed and walked away with at least one clipboard full of signed recall petitions, he said.

“All of a sudden, I noticed at least one clipboard was gone,” Lam told Here/Say. “I saw him—he was across the street—and he was tossing the clipboard underneath a vehicle.”&nbsp;

“All of a sudden, I noticed at least one clipboard was gone,” Lam told Here/Say. “I saw him—he was across the street—and he was tossing the clipboard underneath a vehicle.”&nbsp;

Lam, a SFUSD parent, immigrant from Hong Kong, and former anti-corruption investigator, walked across the street and confronted the suspect. Exclusive video shows the alleged thief initially arguing with Lam and denying wrongdoing. Moments later, however, the suspect produces what appears to be a batch of petitions from his jeans and hands it over, saying: “You caught me.”&nbsp;

Lam, a SFUSD parent, immigrant from Hong Kong, and former anti-corruption investigator, walked across the street and confronted the suspect. Exclusive video shows the alleged thief initially arguing with Lam and denying wrongdoing. Moments later, however, the suspect produces what appears to be a batch of petitions from his jeans and hands it over, saying: “You caught me.”&nbsp;

Lam filed a police report, and says he plans to press charges if the suspect is apprehended. In video recordings obtained by Here/Say, at least one other eyewitness is heard describing the would-be heist to police officers, saying that he spotted the suspect running off with petitions.&nbsp;

Lam filed a police report, and says he plans to press charges if the suspect is apprehended. In video recordings obtained by Here/Say, at least one other eyewitness is heard describing the would-be heist to police officers, saying that he spotted the suspect running off with petitions.&nbsp;

<figure class="wp-block-image"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/V8pAiQrTwV1q75b8j9Q0Ba9lucqSrZrHXdYK1xi3DqH5NocgyPAGnGtGTNW4AvwD7s-neM7JWWwEbfDTATONH4I3SiTlmL_SR7j581kJjVYRoP9bZKZFXyLD33h3ohD-f7VRLVPn" alt=""/><figcaption>Man Kit Lam provides an eyewitness account to SFPD on Sunday, May 30 after signed BOE recall petitions were allegedly stolen from his table at the farmer’s market. | Photo by Jenny G. Shao</figcaption></figure>

Search Results for: san francisco police department

Hotly contested sunset housing development gets rubber stamp from Board of Supervisors

San Francisco Board of Supervisors kicks off $13B budget negotiations

The California Legislature is back: What to expect in 2022

SFPD investigating attempted theft of signed school board recall petitions