In its first two weeks after being introduced, Assembly Bill 1907 has received support from numerous organizations and leaders. The measure, authored by Assemblyman Miguel Santiago (D-Los Angeles) would fast-track homeless housing throughout the state.

“Californians are struggling to survive on our streets. We have a moral responsibility to do everything we can to provide the shelter and assistance they need to get back on their feet,” Santiago said. “I am proud of the support we have received in such a short amount of time. I look forward to building a powerful, committed coalition as this bill moves forward.”

Due to the extreme homelessness crisis and housing shortage facing the state, a growing number of groups are supporting solutions that will eliminate existing hurdles to build more emergency shelters, supportive housing and affordable housing, Santiago added. AB 1907 was co-authored by Assemblyman Mike A. Gipson (D-Carson) and Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva (D-Fullerton). The bill has also gained support from other local leaders.

“I was proud to support AB 1197 last year to streamline life saving housing for people experiencing homelessness in Los Angeles, and I’m proud to support AB 1907 today to bring the same urgency statewide,” said Los Angeles City Councilman David Ryu, 4th District. “Homelessness is an emergency, and we need to start acting like it. Assembly member Santiago’s bill is the kind of thinking we need to meet this crisis head-on with the speed and scale required.”

AB 1907 will most likely be heard in the Assembly Natural Resources Committee in March or April.