Dear friends,

Whether you’re an aspiring college student, or University faculty struggling to pay the rent, you deserve to live in a home that is safe, affordable, and close to campus.

That’s why we were blown away when a local NIMBY sued UC Berkeley – arguing that the University’s growth in students and faculty members, in the city created for the University, should count as “pollution” under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).

So we’re proud to be the sponsor of SB 886, which will streamline the environmental review process for California's public university systems when they apply to build student and faculty housing on land they own.

If you agree that we need to make it easier for students and faculty at our Universities to find housing they can afford, add your name today to become a community co-sponsor of SB 886. I'M IN » In case you missed the ridiculous UC Berkeley saga, here’s a summary:

A part-time Berkeley resident with a track record of suing to block housing in Berkeley sued the University, arguing that the university’s failure to build sufficient student housing – due in part to his lawsuits – was harming local residents.

Unfortunately, the courts interpreted CEQA in his favor, and cast the future of 2,629 aspiring Cal students into doubt when the University announced it would have to admit fewer students because of the lawsuit.

Thankfully, the State Legislature lept into action with a legal fix, already signed by the Governor, that ensures the ruling will not impact UC Berkeley’s 2022 enrollment.

But as Sen. Wiener pointed out on the Senate floor, this isn’t the first time that CEQA has been abused to block a beneficial project.

That’s why we’re proud to co-sponsor SB 886 – to clarify in law that solutions to our housing and climate crises are environmental benefits.

Will you sign your name in support of this crucial bill? SIGN NOW » Thanks for your continued support, and stay tuned in the coming weeks for some exciting news around Lobby Week, endorsements, and more!

Gratefully,

Matthew

Matthew Lewis
Communications Director
California YIMBY

California YIMBY is a movement dedicated to ending our state’s housing crisis and building a more inclusive, affordable, and accessible state for ALL Californians. If you were forwarded this email, you can join our movement here. Donate now » Want to keep track of housing issues and the YIMBY movement? Sign up for the HomeWork, our newsletter here.

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