Gov. Gavin Newsom and state lawmakers scaled back a law that was vilified for its role in California’s housing shortage and homelessness crisis.

California is rolling back environmental regulations for some construction projects after Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a law this week ending strict review for many new developments. Why it matters: The move could cut down planning and zoning timelines in cities that desperately need more housing.

California lawmakers have rolled back portions of a landmark state environment law to make it easier to build new housing in urban areas.