State GovernmentCalifornia voters overwhelmingly passed Proposition 36. The state still isn’t helping fund itFebruary 5, 2026 | Riley PalmerVoters in 2024 passed a ballot measure to increase penalties for theft and drug crimes, while offering treatment to some defendants. Over a year later, counties lack the resources they need to carry it out, and the state isn’t helping.
State GovernmentUnion leaders have a message for Newsom: Regulate AI if you want to be presidentFebruary 5, 2026Leaders from the AFL-CIO, representing 2.3 million nationwide members, say Gov. Gavin Newsom needs to focus on the technology’s harms to win support for her presidential run.
State GovernmentSupreme Court allows new California congressional districts that favor DemocratsFebruary 4, 2026The Supreme Court has allowed California to use a new voter-approved congressional map that is favorable to Democrats in this year’s elections, rejecting a plea from state Republicans and the Trump administration.
Sacramento RegionState Fire Marshal calls out ‘evidence of illegal activities’ in deadly Esparto explosion reportFebruary 3, 2026 | Sarit LaschinskyCalifornia fire officials say their investigation has been turned over to the Yolo County District Attorney’s office for next steps. The findings come seven months after deadly explosions rocked the small Yolo County town, killing seven workers.
Sacramento Region‘In California, Connor's life is worth less than $950’: This family is trying to get dangerous drivers off the roadFebruary 3, 2026 | Ruth FinchVehicular manslaughter is charged as a “wobbler,” where a judge can decide whether the crime as a felony or misdemeanor in California. Misdemeanors are eligible for pretrial diversions, which could take it off driver’s records. Listen /Update RequiredTo play audio, update browser or Flash plugin.
Health CareAs the U.S. bids adieu to the World Health Organization, California says helloFebruary 3, 2026As the Trump administration says it has withdrawn from WHO over its handling of COVID, among other things, California is stepping in.
State GovernmentStudy warns AI toys pose ‘unacceptable risks’ to young childrenFebruary 2, 2026 | Chris FeltsWhat happens when artificial intelligence becomes a child’s playmate? A new report out from Common Sense Media warns it can create unhealthy emotional dependency.
State GovernmentCops have to treat marijuana in your car differently after new California Supreme Court rulingJanuary 30, 2026If you can’t easily consume it, having marijuana in your car does not give California police the right to search the vehicle.
State GovernmentCalifornia Democrats push for new legislation to take on ICEJanuary 30, 2026 | Laura FitzgeraldIn the wake of two killings of American citizens by immigration agents in Minneapolis, California Democrats say they want more accountability for ICE.
Health CareAmid enrollment drops, Covered California encouraging people to sign up for coverage as deadline loomsJanuary 28, 2026 | Vicki Gonzalez | Sarit LaschinskyThe state’s health insurance market place says new enrollment is down around 30% compared to last year. This comes amid concerns about how the expiration of federal tax credits could cause premiums to skyrocket. Listen / download audio Update RequiredTo play audio, update browser or Flash plugin.
