Front Porch's HomeMatch honored with award as Assembly member proposes Home Sharing Act

In a recent meeting of the San Francisco City Commission, significant discussions centered around the HomeMatch program and a new legislative proposal aimed at enhancing housing options for older adults. Andrea Lazoric, program director of HomeMatch, announced that the program has been honored with the 2025 Innovation and Social Award by the American Society on Aging. This recognition highlights the program's creative approach to addressing the housing needs of seniors in the community.

Lazoric also introduced Assembly Bill 474, known as the Home Sharing Act of 2025, which aims to provide financial incentives and protections for low-income homeowners participating in nonprofit home-sharing initiatives. Key features of the bill include tax exemptions for rental income earned by these homeowners, ensuring that such income does not affect their eligibility for government assistance programs, and strengthening tenant protections within home-sharing agreements. The bill also seeks to support nonprofit organizations involved in home sharing by reducing barriers and offering legal assistance.

With California's older adult population projected to reach 11.4 million by 2040, the state’s master plan for aging prioritizes addressing senior housing needs. The Home Sharing Act is a step towards creating more affordable housing options and stability for seniors, reflecting the community's commitment to supporting its aging population.

The meeting also included a call for public comments, although no additional input was received from attendees. As the commission moves forward, the implications of these discussions will be closely watched by residents concerned about housing affordability and support for older adults in San Francisco.