EnvironmentA contentious project to raise California’s Shasta Dam just got a funding boost from TrumpMarch 18, 2026The Trump administration Tuesday announced $40 million for “planning and preconstruction activities associated with raising Shasta Dam."
State GovernmentCalifornia’s powerful labor forces are divided on who should be the state’s next governorMarch 18, 2026 | Laura FitzgeraldIn one example, the California Federation of Labor Unions endorsed four candidates for governor, making the move ‘worthless,’ according to one political analyst.
State GovernmentCésar Chávez accused of sexually abusing labor rights leader Dolores HuertaMarch 18, 2026Labor rights leader Dolores Huerta says she was sexually abused by César Chavez amid reported allegations of abuse by others during his tenure as president of The United Farm Workers union.
State GovernmentState workers push for 100% telework as Newsom’s return-to-office order loomsMarch 17, 2026 | Vicki Gonzalez | Sarit LaschinskyGovernor Gavin Newsom says workers returning to the office will boost business in downtown Sacramento, but labor unions are pushing back amid ongoing contract negotiations. Listen / download audio Update RequiredTo play audio, update browser or Flash plugin.
State GovernmentCalifornia bullet train could run out of money before finishing its first Central Valley segmentMarch 13, 2026 | Gerardo ZavalaBudget analysts say the high-speed rail project faces billions of dollars in funding gaps and no clear path to reach Los Angeles or San Francisco. The fate of its first Central Valley segment is also in jeopardy.
State GovernmentCalifornia passed a law to curb spikes in gas prices. Why isn’t it using those powers now?March 13, 2026Gasoline has surged to record highs as global oil markets spike amid the Iran war. California built a first-in-the-nation system to police refinery profits during price spikes. Regulators delayed it for five years.
EnvironmentCould grizzly bears make a return to California after a century-long absence?March 13, 2026 | Chris FeltsA new bill in the state Legislature could be key in returning the grizzly bear to California. It would require the Department of Fish and Wildlife to create a ‘roadmap’ for reintroduction by June 2028.
State GovernmentCalifornia’s foster care system is buckling under the weight of this unexpected costMarch 11, 2026Critical infrastructure that holds up California’s foster care system is quietly collapsing in the wake of sex abuse lawsuits, leaving children at risk.
State GovernmentSome State Farm customers could see refunds while homeowner rate hikes stay putMarch 10, 2026State Farm reaches settlement over emergency insurance rate hikes after last year’s Los Angeles County fires.
State GovernmentRep. Kevin Kiley says he's leaving the Republican Party and will serve as an independentMarch 10, 2026Rep. Kevin Kiley of Rocklin says he’s dropping his Republican Party affiliation to serve as an independent. Kiley said the change will take effect immediately. The two-term congressman faces a tough reelection battle following redistricting.
