Prop 33 explained: Making it easier for cities and counties to impose rent control
Proposition 33 asks California voters to make it easier for cities and counties to limit how much a landlord can charge a tenant for rent. The ballot measure would specifically repeal a state law that restricts the ability of cities and counties to impose rent control.
Under that law known as the Costa-Hawkins Rental Housing Act, cities cannot set rent control on single-family homes or apartments built after 1995. Landlords are also able to charge however much they want when a new tenant moves into their property under current law.
This will be the third attempt by renters' advocates to repeal Costa-Hawkins. They tried in 2018 and 2020.
Who supports it?
The California Nurses Association, the California Alliance for Retired Americans, the AIDS Healthcare Foundation and various other groups known for tenant advocacy.
"Where will I live?—This is the question that haunts California's 17 million renters," the groups said in a statement. "55% of Californians are rent burdened, paying more than 30% of their income on rent and there is no end in sight. Rent increases are far outstripping pay increases. A starting teacher, cop, or firefighter is paying half their salary to afford the average apartment in California's cities. Many who live on a fixed income are one rent increase away from homelessness— and seniors represent the fastest-growing homeless population. Something has to give. The affordable housing crisis is destroying the California Dream."
How much money has the supportive campaign raised?
As of September 9, the latest state campaign finance data show supporters have raised $29.4 million. The bulk of the funding - $28.7 of that- is from the AIDS Healthcare Foundation.
Who opposes it?
The coalition against the measure is broad with groups warning the measure would weaken renter protections. The NO on 33 campaign includes the California Council for Affordable Housing, Women Veterans Alliance and California Chamber of Commerce.
"Don’t be fooled by the latest corporate landlord anti-housing scheme," the groups wrote in a statement. "California voters have rejected this radical proposal twice before, because it would freeze the construction of new housing and could effectively reverse dozens of new state housing laws."
How much has the opposing campaign raised to fight it?
As of early September, the latest campaign finance data showed opponents raised $52.4 million. Top funders include the California Association of Realtors with $22 million, and the California Apartment Association with $21.4 million.
For more information about the November election, including key issues and other races on the ballot, check out the KCRA 3 Voter Guide. Find more political news from our national team here.