State GovernmentGavin Newsom’s mental health plan could strip more than $700 million from services, report saysJuly 17, 2023Gov. Gavin Newsom wants to rethink how California spends its millionaire’s tax by directing more money toward housing. Some county-run mental health programs could lose out.
State GovernmentWhat happened to the big changes to California elections?July 15, 2023The most sweeping bills to change California elections got shelved in the Legislature. Instead, lawmakers are focusing on ballot measure language, local redistricting, voting integrity and campaign finance tweaks before the 2024 election.
State GovernmentWhy California Assembly Democrats blocked a child trafficking bill — and why they reversed courseJuly 13, 2023 | Nicole NixonSome Democrats stiffly oppose any legislation to increase criminal penalties.
EducationCal State has a new chancellor. Her challenges include the system’s sexual misconduct allegations and massive budget gapJuly 12, 2023Mildred García will take over a system confronting a budget shortfall, declining enrollment and complaints about how Cal State officials have handled sexual misconduct allegations.
Health CareMedi-Cal’s fragmented system can make moving a nightmareJuly 9, 2023When Medi-Cal beneficiary Lloyd Tennison moved last year from Contra Costa County to San Joaquin County, he was bumped off his managed care plan without notice before his new coverage took effect. His case highlights a chronic issue.
EnvironmentCalifornia and manufacturers strike deal over zero-emission trucksJuly 8, 2023Truck manufacturers won’t file legal challenges over California’s controversial mandate, and in return, the state air board will relax some smog-fighting requirements.
State GovernmentGot COVID from a loved one who was at work? Their employer owes you nothing, California court rulesJuly 8, 2023A Bay Area woman sued her husband’s employer after she became infected with COVID-19. The California Supreme Court found that giving her workers’ comp could set a precedent that would imperil the system.
Health CareCalifornia promises better care for thousands of inmates as they leave prisonJuly 6, 2023California officials recently agreed to give new parolees a 60-day supply of their prescriptions and promised to replace lost medical equipment in the month after they’re released from prison.
EnvironmentTribal leaders, environmental groups rally for a better water rights systemJuly 6, 2023 | Manola SecairaAdvocates showed their support for a trio of bills that would make California’s water rights system more equitable and transparent.
State GovernmentCalifornia’s firefighter union is poised to get a rare perk: Guaranteed raises, foreverJuly 2, 2023After several years of devastating wildfires, California lawmakers want to give hefty raises to Cal Fire firefighters. The deal could tie the governor’s hands in contracts.