CA AB686

Requires public agencies to administer housing and community development programs in a manner that affirmatively furthers fair housing and prohibits actions materially inconsistent with this obligation, with interpretation based on the federal HUD Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing Final Rule from July 16, 2015.

Adds new Chapter 15 (commencing with Section 8899.50) to define "affirmatively furthering fair housing" as taking meaningful actions to overcome segregation patterns, address housing disparities, transform concentrated poverty areas, and foster inclusive communities free from barriers based on protected characteristics.

Requires housing elements due for revision on or after January 1, 2021 to include an assessment of fair housing that evaluates segregation patterns, disparities in access to opportunity, contributing factors, and establishes priorities with metrics and strategies to address identified issues.

Amends Section 65583.2 to require inventory of land suitable for residential development to identify sites throughout the community consistent with affirmatively furthering fair housing requirements, including analysis of site capacity and development potential.

Imposes state-mandated local program duties on cities, counties, and public housing authorities; provides no state reimbursement for certain costs but allows reimbursement if Commission on State Mandates determines other mandated costs exist.