
<a href="https://reason.com/2025/08/05/gavin-newsom-karen-bass-declare-nimby-martial-law-to-stop-duplexes-in-the-palisades/" target="_blank">View original image source</a>.
California is in a housing pickle, and the state’s leaders seem to have chosen martial law over duplexes amid wildfire recovery efforts. Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass have issued executive orders halting the construction of duplexes in areas impacted by the recent wildfires, arguing that the risks to safety outweigh the benefits of rebuilding. But is that really the best approach, or are they just kicking the can down the road?
Critics of the decision argue that existing laws, like Senate Bill 9, already have fire safety measures baked in. They claim this new mandate could slow down the recovery for those who lost their homes. After all, if someone’s forced to wait longer for housing, how are they supposed to get back on their feet? It’s like putting out a fire by emptying the water jug and claiming you’re keeping it “safe.”
As for the locals, there’s some serious concern about opportunistic developers trying to profit from the mess left behind by nature’s wrath. It’s a bit of a moral quagmire! If rebuilding could mean making some cash for certain types of builders, shouldn’t the focus be on ensuring safety while also allowing recovery? It’s like trying to solve a puzzle while missing half the pieces.
So what’s the right answer here? Should leaders prioritize safety at all costs, or find a way to balance that with the urgent need for new housing? If you’re in this situation, what would you want done? Feel free to share your thoughts!
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