AIA California is pleased to share that AB 1265 (Haney), our co-sponsored legislation to renew and strengthen California’s Historic Preservation Tax Credit, has passed the Legislature and is now on the Governor’s desk awaiting his signature.

Co-sponsored by AIA California and the California Preservation Foundation, AB 1265 will continue an important tool for making the rehabilitation and adaptive reuse of historic buildings financially feasible. The legislation extends California’s Historic Preservation Tax Credit, helping encourage investment in historic properties and supporting projects that can create housing, preserve existing buildings, revitalize communities, and reduce the environmental impacts associated with demolition and new construction.

For architects, the Historic Preservation Tax Credit can help unlock projects that otherwise struggle to pencil out. Rehabilitation and adaptive reuse projects often face significant upfront costs, financing challenges, and regulatory complexity. By providing a meaningful financial incentive for investment in historic structures, AB 1265 can help turn underutilized buildings into housing, workplaces, and community assets while preserving the character and history of California’s communities.

Reaching the Governor’s desk represents the culmination of significant work over the past two years. AIA California extends our sincere thanks to Assemblymember Matt Haney and his staff for their leadership and persistence in advancing AB 1265 through the Legislature. We are also grateful to our co-sponsor, the California Preservation Foundation, for its partnership, expertise, and tireless advocacy throughout the legislative process.

AIA California is proud to have worked alongside these partners and preservation advocates from across the state to advance a policy that brings together historic preservation, housing, sustainability, and economic development.

With the Legislature’s work complete, AB 1265 now awaits action by Governor Newsom. AIA California urges the Governor to sign AB 1265 into law and ensure that California continues investing in the rehabilitation and adaptive reuse of the historic buildings that contribute so much to our communities.

We will keep members informed as the Governor takes action on the bill.