Proposition 33 would allow cities and counties to adopt rent control by repealing the Costa-Hawkins Rental Housing Act. Similar state rent control initiatives failed in 2020 and 2018.
Supporters say ban on localities capping rent for vacant apartments, townhomes and condos lifted built recently will give local governments tools to ease the affordability crisis for their residents.
Opponents counter that it will cause developers to build less, hurting California’s housing affordability. Real estate interests oppose the measure along with an affordable housing bond measure, Proposition 5. A committee has been formed to oppose both proposals — its fundraiser is included in The Times tracking campaign spending for both proposals.
Overall collection
Cumulative contributions
Biggest supporters
The AIDS Healthcare Foundation, a Los Angeles nonprofit behind the previous rent control efforts, has contributed more than $36 million in support. Los Angeles City Councilman Kevin de León has formed a committee in support of this measure as well as Propositions 3 and 32. His $600,000 contribution is included in all three. Other supporters are workers’ and tenants’ organisations.
Biggest resistance
The opposition is supported by real estate investors, realtors and property managers including investor Michael K. Hayde with $1.9 million. The California Apartment Assn. has contributed $34.4 million in opposition. One of the committees opposing this measure, the Homeownership for Families Committee, also opposes Proposition 5, a measure that would make it easier for local governments to pass bonds and tax measures that fund affordable housing and public infrastructure. Entries appear in both. It is sponsored by the California Assn. of Realtors, who have contributed $22 million.
Times housing reporter Andrew Khouri contributed to this report.