Housing & Homelessness

Is housing a human right? California voters could decide

More than 170,000 people are homeless in California. Some Democrats want to make the state the nation’s first to declare housing a human right, but opponents worry it would be costly.

by Marisa Kendall, CalMatters June 15, 2023June 14, 2023

The Credence condominium development in El Cerrito is pictured. El Cerrito is among several locations the state has recognized as a "prohousing" community — one that promotes climate-smart housing policies that encourage more affordable homes to support low-income communities and communities of color. (Courtesy city of El Cerrito)

Life, liberty, the pursuit of happiness and…housing?

California lawmakers are trying to enshrine the right to housing in the state’s constitution. But what exactly does that mean in a state that lacks the resources to give everyone a roof over their heads?

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