- California bill AB 1674 would obligate housing developers to preserve or fund grocery store capacity in ‘food deserts.’
- Industry groups warn the mandated mixed-use requirements are vague and could hinder housing production.
- The measure is advancing despite opposition, passing committee with unanimous support.
- AB 1674 would create a grant program to expand access to healthy food in underserved areas.
New Grocery Store Mandate Advances
California legislators are considering AB 1674, a controversial bill that would require developers to address grocery store needs when building new rental housing in ‘food deserts.’ According to Globe St, the measure, authored by Assemblymember Patrick Ahrens, could force developers to preserve, build, or fund grocery store capacity near qualifying projects.
Industry Reaction and Concerns
Industry groups like the California Apartment Association and Building Industry Association are sounding alarms about the mixed-use requirements. They point to a lack of clarity around what constitutes an area ‘at risk’ of becoming a food desert. The concern: developers could face inconsistent approvals, additional costs, and new barriers to producing urgently needed housing. At the same time, stricter workplace policies in major markets are already reshaping demand patterns around daily essentials, adding another layer of complexity for developers trying to align projects with evolving urban behavior.
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Legislative Momentum for Mixed-Use Solutions
AB 1674 received unanimous support in its first committee and now moves forward in the legislative process. Although committee members encouraged continued dialogue with industry critics, there is significant appetite in Sacramento to connect housing development with mixed-use strategies that ensure access to healthy food, especially in underserved communities.
Why It Matters for Development
California already requires various developer mitigation fees for transportation, schools, and the environment. AB 1674 would add grocery store needs to that list, linking mixed-use mandates more closely to ongoing housing policy. Supporters say this approach addresses unintended consequences of rapid housing growth, but the debate over how grocery store requirements will affect future housing supply is likely to continue.
