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.

After a decade of intense debating California overhauls CEQA, its landmark environmental law with hopes of making the state more affordable to live.