State GovernmentFrustration spurs California parents to run for school boardsAugust 20, 2022Some parents who have been outspoken in their criticism of local school districts are finding allies in community members opposed to COVID safety protocols and other education policies.
Health CareMonkeypox resources are scarce in California’s Central ValleyAugust 17, 2022While monkeypox vaccines are targeted to the state’s largest cities, where case numbers are highest, other communities are struggling to respond.
State GovernmentIs it too easy for write-in candidates in California elections?July 31, 2022In California elections, it only takes a handful of signatures and votes for legislative write-in candidates to get on the November ballot. Eleven made it this year, though some won very little support.
EnvironmentDelta tunnel: Salmon at risk from massive water project, state report saysJuly 27, 2022The tunnel project, which would cost billions and take decades, aims to help shore up water supplies in much of California. The new environmental impact report outlines the impacts.
State GovernmentWant to vote on raising California’s minimum wage? Judge says not until 2024July 26, 2022A judge rules that a proposition to raise the California minimum wage to $18 an hour can’t go before voters until 2024.
California counties siphon Social Security benefits from some foster kidsJuly 24, 2022California counties regularly take the Social Security benefits of foster youth who are disabled or whose parents have died. Advocates say it amounts to children paying for their own foster care.
Some COVID orphans in California will get financial helpJuly 24, 2022In California, 32,000 children under 18 have experienced the death of a parent or primary caregiver from COVID-19. The state has set aside $100 million for trust funds for children who are in low-income families to access when they turn 18.
Health CareCovered California insurance rates to increaseJuly 19, 2022Rates in the state’s health insurance marketplace will increase an average of 6% next year. The agency also warned premiums may double for some enrollees if Congress does not renew federal aid.
Health CareHealth care costs keep rising. A new California agency aims to fix thatJuly 17, 2022For years, consumer advocates and some legislators have been battling to rein in escalating health care costs. Now the state has created a new agency to limit future growth in health care costs — and it will have the power to enforce that mandate.
Health CareDial 988: State’s new mental health crisis hotline debutsJuly 17, 2022The new federal number is billed as an alternative to 911 for people experiencing mental health emergencies. A bill would allow California to fund call centers with new fees on phone lines.
