The U.S. Supreme Court turned away a legal challenge to a San Jose affordable housing law brought by the housing industry.
The law requires housing developers to include below-market priced units for low-income buyers on any new housing projects in the city. In its appeal, the industry argued that the law violates federal constitutional protections against the taking of private property.
The California Supreme Court, in June upheld the law, and this decision now stands. In the written decision, one state justice said, "These [affordable housing] problems have become more and more severe and have reached what may be described as epic proportions in many of the state's localities."
The League of California Cities and California State Association of Counties says that about 170 local governments have put versions of the law in place. Developers argued that such laws will force them to pass along the cost of subsidizing below-market units to new homebuyers.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Feb 17, 2017
New energy design guide for metal building systems now available
The second edition incorporates more recent IECC and ASHRAE standards.
Codes and Standards | Feb 14, 2017
Paper outlines how BREEAM credits can be used for WELL standard compliance
The paper provides guidance on how to streamline pursuit of dual certification.
Codes and Standards | Feb 14, 2017
Evidence mounts on health, productivity benefits of sustainable work spaces
High-performance green buildings are linked to better job performance.
Codes and Standards | Feb 13, 2017
Calif. commission approves ‘emergency’ balcony code changes
The changes apply to multifamily, hotels, state-owned buildings, and public schools.
Codes and Standards | Feb 9, 2017
Google-initiated program aims to get construction industry to use healthier building materials
Portico platform features a database of products ranked on how they disclose ingredients.
Codes and Standards | Feb 7, 2017
Newer structural standards mitigating earthquake impacts in Oklahoma
Buildings constructed in the last two decades are largely holding up to increased seismic activity.
Codes and Standards | Feb 6, 2017
New York State offers $36 million for energy efficiency on commercial buildings
Programs will provide money for both owners and renters.
Codes and Standards | Feb 6, 2017
New white paper on modular bathroom pods offers insight on best uses
When to use them, cost, and installation are issues that are explored.
Codes and Standards | Feb 3, 2017
Justice in Design initiative to explore how to design a modern jail
The report will inform design principles for New York City jails.
Codes and Standards | Feb 1, 2017
Massachusetts, Colorado, Illinois lead annual Top 10 States for LEED Green Building list
LEED for Building Operations and Maintenance the most popular rating system in top 10 states.
