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.
State GovernmentLawmakers debate future of California’s free state park passes offered at local librariesMarch 9, 2026 | Gerardo ZavalaSacramento libraries say the popular program brings thousands of people in. But budget analysts want the state to reconsider funding it amid an $18 billion deficit.
State GovernmentThe field is set: Meet the candidates officially running for California governorMarch 9, 2026Eight Democrats and two Republicans have filed officially to run for California governor by the Friday deadline. The crowded field could give GOP candidates a boost.
Sacramento RegionConvicted child rapist about to be released, faces new chargesFebruary 26, 2026 | Ruth FinchThe Board of Parole Hearings ruled that North Highlands serial child rapist David Funston was safe to enter society. He was scheduled to be released Thursday, but prison officials turned him over to Placer County law enforcement.
State GovernmentLicense plates for e-bikes? California bill sparks debate over safetyFebruary 26, 2026 | Gerardo ZavalaThe new bill would require certain e-bikes to carry license plates and owners to register them with the DMV. Advocates say this targets the wrong problem.
State GovernmentBudget watchdog urges CA lawmakers to reject Newsom’s $200M in clean car rebatesFebruary 25, 2026 | Gerardo ZavalaCalifornia’s nonpartisan budget analyst says the governor's rebate plan is too costly, citing the group’s projected $18 billion state budget deficit.
