Shelter crisis: emergency housing: immunity from liability.

Senator Becker's proposal to modify California's shelter crisis provisions expands liability protections for entities providing emergency housing while adjusting regulatory oversight mechanisms. The legislation amends existing law to extend immunity beyond political subdivisions to include contractors, architects, engineers, and other service providers involved in emergency housing projects. This immunity would cover claims related to health standards, habitability requirements, planning and zoning regulations, safety procedures, and California Environmental Quality Act compliance.

The bill authorizes the Department of Housing and Community Development to establish and enforce municipal health and safety standards during declared shelter emergencies, as well as review permits for shelter and interim housing projects. For cities with populations over 3.5 million, the legislation outlines specific provisions for operating emergency housing facilities that do not meet state building standards, provided they implement alternative safety measures approved by the State Fire Marshal. These measures include occupancy limits, 24-hour fire watch requirements, smoke detector installations, and regular safety inspections.

The Legislature's findings declare these amendments address matters of statewide concern rather than municipal affairs, making the provisions applicable to all California cities, including charter cities. The bill maintains existing limitations on immunity, excluding cases of gross negligence, reckless conduct, or intentional acts causing injury. Current sunset provisions remain unchanged, with the underlying shelter crisis statute set to expire on January 1, 2036.