13 Key Housing Proposals to Watch This Election Day: What’s at Stake

13 Housing Proposals to Keep an Eye on During the 2024 Election

While California may get the lion’s share of attention in the upcoming election, it’s not the only state where significant housing decisions are on the ballot. Across the U.S., voters will be weighing in on a series of state and local measures that could reshape the housing market, impact landlord-tenant relations, and influence affordable housing funding. In total, 13 housing-related measures in multiple states are up for consideration, and the results could have lasting effects for property owners, investors, and renters alike. Let’s dive into the key housing proposals that could make a big difference this November.

California: Proposition 33

A critical issue for California voters in 2024 is the proposed changes to the state's rent control laws with Proposition 33. Currently, under the Costa-Hawkins Rent Control Act, rent control cannot apply to properties built after February 1995, and it restricts local governments from regulating rent on new leases. Proposition 33 seeks to extend rent control to include new tenants, regardless of the unit's rental history, and expand its reach to single-family homes. While proponents argue that this measure will make housing more affordable in the face of rising rents, critics worry that it may hinder new housing construction and discourage investment—potentially making the state’s affordable housing crisis worse.

Berkeley, California: Measure BB

In Berkeley, Measure BB proposes using existing funds to create programs aimed at preventing homelessness and retaining housing. It includes provisions for expanding rent control exemptions, increasing tenant association rights, and requiring property owners to meet with tenant groups. The measure also seeks to introduce protections against eviction, cap rent hikes at 5%, and regulate how utility charges are assessed. If passed, it will have a major impact on multifamily operations and the landlord-tenant dynamic in the city.

Berkeley, California: Measure CC

Measure CC in Berkeley offers a different approach. It aims to use city revenue to fund rent payments to landlords, modify eviction laws, and expand tenant protections. However, it directly conflicts with Measure BB by proposing an increase in the allowable rent increase from 7% to 7.1%. If both measures are approved, the one with the greater number of votes will take effect.

Fairfax, California: Measure 1

Fairfax voters will be deciding whether to repeal the city’s Just Cause Eviction and Rent Stabilization Ordinance. If passed, Measure 1 would replace these local laws with state regulations and return the town to prior housing codes.

San Anselmo, California: Measure O

Measure O in San Anselmo requires property owners with three or more rental units to provide longer notice periods for evictions, offer relocation assistance, and give tenants the right to return to their apartments after no-fault lease terminations. The measure also mandates that landlords cover the costs for temporary displacements. This proposed change could significantly affect the landlord-tenant relationship in the city.

Hoboken, New Jersey: Ballot Question

In Hoboken, current rent control laws cap rent increases at 5% or the Consumer Price Index rate—whichever is greater. If a unit has been occupied for three years or more and becomes vacant, landlords can raise rents by up to 25%. The new ballot measure seeks to allow landlords to raise rents on vacant rent-controlled units to market rates, with the condition that landlords contribute $2,500 to Hoboken’s Affordable Housing Trust Fund. The units would return to rent control once reoccupied.

California: Proposition 5

Another key proposal in California, Proposition 5, seeks to reduce the supermajority required to approve local ballot measures related to affordable housing bonds. It would lower the threshold from 66.67% to 55%, making it easier for local governments to raise funds for affordable housing projects through bonds.

Rhode Island: Question 3

Rhode Island voters will have the chance to approve $120 million in bonds for housing development, with $80 million specifically earmarked for affordable housing. This initiative is designed to address the state's growing need for affordable housing solutions.

Other Affordable Housing Measures Across the U.S.

• Baltimore, Maryland: Question A

  This measure would authorize the city to borrow up to $20 million to support its affordable housing program, helping to address Baltimore’s shortage of affordable housing options.

• Charlotte, North Carolina: Housing Bond Measure

  Charlotte will vote on a measure to fund a $100 million affordable housing bond, supported by increased property taxes. The funds would be used to create more affordable housing in response to the city’s expanding population.

• Los Angeles County, California: Measure A

  Measure A in Los Angeles County proposes replacing the existing Measure H sales tax, a quarter-cent sales tax that supports affordable housing programs, with a half-cent sales tax. The new tax would extend the funding for affordable housing initiatives beyond 2027.

• Oroville, California: Measure N

  Measure N in Oroville focuses on approving an 18-unit low-income housing project. If approved, the measure will directly affect the city’s affordable housing supply.

• San Francisco, California: Proposition G In San Francisco

  Proposition G aims to allocate a minimum of $8.25 million annually to provide rental subsidies for extremely low-income tenants, a key step in addressing the city’s affordable housing crisis.

  
  

Final Takeaways

As housing continues to be one of the most pressing issues facing the U.S., the results of these ballot measures—especially in places like California—could influence housing policy across the nation for years to come. Even if your city or state isn’t directly affected by these proposals, the outcome of these votes may provide a blueprint for future housing legislation. Regardless of where you live or your political leanings, November’s elections could mark a turning point in how affordable housing is funded and regulated, potentially reshaping the housing landscape in 2025 and beyond.