What's happening: A bill (AB x26) was passed, eliminating redevelopment agencies (and with them, the 20% of their funding that helped produce affordable places to live). A second bill (AB x27) was also passed, allowing redevelopment agencies to continue their work, so long as they made specific, mandated payments. A law suit (on behalf of the redevelopment agencies) was filed, and, while the court granted a "stay" on the elimination, it also froze much of redevelopment's activities until January 2012 (when the California Supreme Court will hear the case). Right now, "clean up" legislation is being drafted and Housing California is working to protect the 20% of redevelopment funds that prevent homelessness by providing a basic and vital human need: shelter.

Why it matters: If we don't weigh in on this "clean up" legislation, there could be instances in which housing funds must be used to make the mandated payments, but are never repaid. Californians on fixed incomes and modest budgets are struggling to keep roofs over their heads and have already been hit hard by other budget cuts. Many are relying on redevelopment's housing funding to create more safe, stable affordable places to live. For these individuals, affordable homes are all that stand between them and homelessness.

How you can help: Click here to use the email template or to download a printable letter.

Who will receive your e-mailed letter: Key legislators who serve on the Senate and Assembly committees working on this issue. Also, your state Senator and Assemblymember (based on the zip code you enter).

Recipients