California voters have defeated a ballot question that would have allowed local jurisdictions to expand rent control or create new rent control laws on most housing types.
The measure, Proposition 21, had support of roughly 40% of voters. It was the second time in consecutive election cycles that voters shot down a statewide rent control referendum. Real estate developers and Gov. Gavin Newsom opposed the measure.
Another question impacting commercial real estate, Proposition 15, was losing as of Nov. 5, but the outcome was considered too close to call. This measure would amend the state constitution to allow commercial and industrial properties to be taxed at market value rather than the purchase price.
In San Francisco, Proposition H, a measure to streamline the permitting processes for new businesses and allow existing restaurants/retailers to change business models and storefronts was approved. Proposition I, a question to increase the transfer tax on property sales valued at $10 million or more with funds to go toward affordable housing, appears to have passed.
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