SB 502 – Misguided subsidies for schools to build housing

OPPOSE   SB 502 allows public school districts to use funds from the Building Homes and Jobs Trust Fund to develop subsidized workforce housing for their employees. While intended to help recruit and retain educators, the bill would divert critical housing dollars to school districts that are already facing academic decline, enrollment drops, and financial instability. Expecting these districts to take on complex real estate development is unrealistic and could lead to further mismanagement. It would also entangle schools in housing-related disputes and collective bargaining issues, pulling focus away from their primary mission of educating students. Instead of expanding bureaucratic responsibilities, California should focus on proven, private-sector housing solutions.   Full Bill Text