CA Carpenters Union Helped Reduce Red Tape Blocking New Housing Construction

The carpenters' union in California has become a powerful force in housing policy, supporting significant reforms that facilitate urban apartment development. Recent legislation exempts such developments from strict environmental reviews, altering the landscape of housing production. Governor Gavin Newsom credited the carpenters for their role in these reforms, acknowledging that their involvement has allowed Democratic lawmakers to tackle the housing crisis with union support. The carpenters' pro-development stance contrasts with opposing labor organizations, thus reshaping local political dynamics and campaign contributions in favor of moderate candidates.

The California Conference of Carpenters has emerged in recent years as one of the most influential voices on housing in Sacramento. The new law rolls back California's landmark environmental review law to exempt urban apartment developments, an idea once considered a legislative third rail.

Gov. Gavin Newsom singled out the carpenters' union for credit, stating that their involvement was crucial in passing landmark housing reforms and tackling the housing crisis.

Read at San Jose Inside