Part 10/14:
California’s focus on environmental objectives sometimes appears to outweigh housing affordability and community stability. Critics accuse lawmakers of pursuing "green" goals at the expense of fundamental housing needs, ignoring economic realities and public sentiment.
A Pattern of Repeated Failures
Historically, California and other West Coast states have implemented various policies—such as easing zoning laws, promoting transit-oriented development, and encouraging high-density housing—that have not successfully reduced housing costs. Instead, these measures have often led to increased gentrification, displacement, and stagnant or rising prices.