The campaign supporting the Building an Affordable California Act announced on April 27 that it has started submitting nearly one million voter signatures to county election officials across California, a number organizers say is sufficient to qualify the measure for the November 2026 statewide ballot.
Supporters of the initiative say it aims to reform what they describe as an outdated project approval process in California, which they argue causes delays and increased costs for essential infrastructure projects. Jennifer Barrera, President and Chief Executive Officer of the California Chamber of Commerce, said, “California voters are frustrated that it takes too long and costs too much to build the basic projects we need. From housing and energy to water and wildfire prevention, our outdated way of doing things is driving up costs and holding California back. The Building an Affordable California Act will cut red tape, reduce delays, and help deliver the projects Californians need—faster and more affordably—while maintaining strong environmental protections.”
The proposed measure would establish clear timelines for agency decisions and judicial review in order to streamline permitting processes. Supporters claim major projects in California currently face delays ranging from four to eight years or longer due to duplicative reviews, changing requirements, and extended litigation periods. Scott Murtishaw, Executive Director of the California Energy Storage Alliance said, “California’s clean energy future depends on building faster. Affordable CA will allow us to deploy clean energy, much-needed energy storage, and grid infrastructure at the necessary pace to deliver reliable, affordable power.” Jennifer Capitolo from the California Water Association added that timely investment is crucial: “When critical projects are delayed for years, the consequences result in higher costs and added strain on the systems people rely on. Affordable CA will help streamline water projects so essential water investments can move forward with the urgency and accountability Californians need and deserve.” Corey Smith from Housing Action Coalition said that easing construction barriers could address housing shortages: “Affordable CA will help cut through the delays that hold back new housing… making it easier to deliver homes Californians need…”
According to its supporters—including a coalition of over 85 organizations—the act maintains environmental protections while requiring agencies and courts make timely decisions based on evidence.
The signature submission begins a verification process before potential certification for this fall’s ballot vote. Barrera concluded by saying: “We’re excited to take Affordable CA to voters this November… And we are confident Californians will join us in delivering a faster, more affordable future.”
The California Chamber of Commerce serves employers across California with statewide representation; it seeks policies promoting job creation according to its official website. Barrera has served as president since her appointment was reported by their official website. The chamber provides compliance resources along with HR tools for members according to its site, represents employers throughout all regions as per its official information, influences legislation via Job Killer/Job Creator lists per their reporting, while aiming overall at fostering economic growth.
