Housing crisis fix? Proposed state law inspired by homeless Oakland moms aims to fill vacant homes

State legislation introduced Wednesday aims to reduce the number of empty homes in California and give tenants the right of first refusal to buy foreclosed properties. The bill was inspired by the plight of a group of homeless mothers who recently took up residence in a vacant West Oakland home to call attention to California’s housing crisis.

State Senator Nancy Skinner, D-Berkeley, introduced SB1079, which would allow cities and counties to fine corporations that let their properties sit vacant for more than 90 days.

For the full report, click here.