Wait, I thought upzoning and increased density increased quality of living? Are you saying that's not the case?
replyPutting that aside, no one is forcing region Y to upzone or not upzone in this scenario. They can make the choice they prefer, just like region X.
The state of California is forcing Rancho Palos Verde to upzone. Because it's good for California even though whether it's good for Rancho Palos Verde is debatable.
reply1. Yes, and the people who are in favor of this specific law will be completely and utterly shocked when the state government uses their power to enact and enforce a different law that takes away local decision making which they don't agree with.
reply2. I take it you're done discussing the theoretical merits of this law?