CA SB850

Modifies streamlined multifamily housing approval process (until January 1, 2026) to require below-market-rate housing based on localities failing to meet regional housing needs in both above-moderate-income AND below-80% area median income categories, rather than either category alone.

Establishes Homeless Emergency Aid Program allocating $500,000,000 in one-time block grants to local entities for homelessness prevention, emergency aid, and criminal justice diversion, with awards based on point-in-time counts and proportionate homeless population share.

Creates California Emergency Solutions and Housing Program providing funding for rental assistance, permanent supportive housing, emergency shelters, street outreach, and coordinated entry systems within Continuum of Care service areas using formula-based allocation.

Allocates $5,000,000 to Bridges at Kraemer Place emergency shelter in Orange County and $5,000,000 to County of Merced for homeless navigation center development from Building Homes and Jobs Trust Fund.

Expands Homeless Coordinating and Financing Council from 15 to 17 members, adds Secretary of Business, Consumer Services, and Housing as chair, includes formerly homeless youth representative, and moves staffing from Department of Housing and Community Development to Business, Consumer Services, and Housing Agency.