State GovernmentUnion-backed bill would require telework options for California state workersFebruary 23, 2026 | Laura FitzgeraldMost state employees must return to work in-person at least four days a week starting July 1, under a mandate from Governor Gavin Newsom. Listen /Update RequiredTo play audio, update browser or Flash plugin.
State GovernmentLawmaker pushes bill for San Francisco to break away from PG&EFebruary 23, 2026 | Laura FitzgeraldA publicly-run utility has long been San Francisco’s goal. The new measure aims to make that a reality by curbing CPUC power.
Health CareVentilator-dependent Davis woman in battle with CalPERS to continue careFebruary 19, 2026 | Ruth FinchSara Granda’s accident has led to a lifelong fight to get appropriate in-home care covered by insurance since she was initially injured in 1997. She officially brought a lawsuit against CalPERS in 2021.
State GovernmentCritics say bill creates ‘veil of secrecy’ over California’s high-speed rail recordsFebruary 12, 2026 | Gerardo ZavalaA proposed bill meant to clarify oversight of California’s high-speed rail project drew backlash from critics who say it could limit public access to records. This comes as the project grapples with a complete loss of federal support.
State GovernmentNewsom takes aim at veterans ‘claim sharks’ as he signs law banning fees for help with VAFebruary 12, 2026Many veterans turn to private companies for help filing disability claims at the Department of Veterans Affairs and then face bills that run well into the thousands of dollars.
State GovernmentCalifornia’s Planned Parenthood clinics will get a $90 million boost from the stateFebruary 11, 2026 | Laura FitzgeraldGovernor Gavin Newsom signed legislation on Wednesday approving emergency funding for reproductive clinics following the loss of federal funds.
Housing and HomelessnessHousing advocates still waiting for state-ordered stair reportFebruary 10, 2026California’s fire safety regulators were asked to study whether mid-rise apartments can go with a single staircase. They’re more than a month late.
ImmigrationJudge blocks California's ban on federal agents wearing masks but requires badges be clearly seenFebruary 9, 2026A federal judge has blocked a California law from going into effect that would ban federal immigration agents from covering their faces but they will still be required to wear clear identification showing their agency and badge number.
State GovernmentCalifornia union pushes work-from-home bill as Newsom calls state employees back to the officeFebruary 9, 2026The legislative proposal by the California union known as PECG would require state agencies to offer telework options “to the fullest extent possible” and mandate they disclose how much money they save by allowing remote work.
State GovernmentCoverage for menopause care could expand in California under new budget proposalFebruary 6, 2026 | Laura FitzgeraldThe proposal calls for expanding prescription drug coverage to treat perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause symptoms. It would also mandate insurance-covered screenings for women over 40.
