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AB-939 • 2026

Housing development: density bonuses: affordability of for-sale units.

Housing development: density bonuses: affordability of for-sale units.

Housing
Active

The official status still shows this bill as active or still awaiting another formal step.

Sponsor
Schultz
Last action
Official status
Senate - Third Reading
Effective date
Not listed

Plain English Breakdown

The official text mentions the bill provides that no reimbursement is required for a 'specified reason,' but does not detail what that specific reason is.

New Option for Affordable Housing Sales Under Density Bonus Law

AB-939 adds an option to meet affordable housing rules by selling units directly to nonprofit corporations, which then sell them to low-income families using special loan programs.

What This Bill Does

  • Allows developers and local governments to meet affordability requirements if a for-sale unit is purchased by a specified nonprofit corporation.
  • Requires that the homes bought by nonprofits be sold to extremely low, very low, or lower income families who participate in a below-market interest rate loan program.
  • Adds new duties for local agencies under the Density Bonus Law without requiring state reimbursement.

Who It Names or Affects

  • Developers seeking density bonuses
  • Cities and counties that approve housing developments
  • Nonprofit corporations purchasing affordable homes

Terms To Know

Density Bonus Law
A rule requiring local governments to give developers extra building allowances if they include affordable units.
Below-market interest rate loan program
A lending plan offering lower borrowing costs than standard loans for qualifying homebuyers.

Limits and Unknowns

  • The bill does not specify exactly which nonprofit corporations qualify to buy the units.
  • It is unclear how many projects will choose this new option over existing rules.
  • The text states no state reimbursement is required but gives only a general reason for that decision.

Bill History

  1. California Legislative Information

    Senate - Third Reading

Official Summary Text

Housing development: density bonuses: affordability of for-sale units.