State GovernmentCalifornia’s Republican caucus is growing and more diverse, but it’s a long way from powerNovember 27, 2024While Democrats retain a supermajority, experts say Republican wins – and an increasingly diverse GOP Caucus – signal potential shifts in voter sentiment among non white voters.
EnvironmentUnstoppable invasion: How did mussels sneak into California, despite decades of state shipping rules?November 26, 2024Most ships discharging ballast water into California waters are inspected, but state officials have tested the water of only 16 ships. Experts say invaders like mussels are inevitable under current rules and enforcement.
EducationCalifornia State University increases its graduation rates but is falling short of its ambitious goalsNovember 22, 2024Cal State has a goal to graduate 40% of its freshmen within four years. It now graduates 36% — it’s highest rate ever. On other goals, the system is further behind.
State GovernmentNo raise for California’s minimum wage workers. Voters reject Prop. 32November 20, 2024California voters refused to raise the statewide minimum wage to $18 an hour. Fast food and health care workers already get more.
State GovernmentCalifornia’s budget is ‘roughly balanced,’ but growing deficits expectedNovember 20, 2024The nonpartisan Legislative Analyst’s Office projects a $2 billion shortfall for 2025-26, but says the state can’t afford big new programs. Gov. Newsom has complained about attention on the office’s deficit estimates.
State GovernmentCovered California starts offering health care to DACA immigrants. Will Trump’s win deter them?November 19, 2024California immigrants with DACA status are newly eligible to buy insurance through the Affordable Care Act. Donald Trump’s election creates uncertainty about the future of the program.
This Central Valley program helps Californians get six-figure jobsNovember 15, 2024ValleyBuild is a workforce development program that helps applicants into apprenticeships for construction trades.
State GovernmentTrump’s proposed tariffs, especially on China and Mexico, could hit California hardNovember 13, 2024Trump has threatened new, higher tariffs on two of California’s biggest trade partners, China and Mexico. The state’s workers and economy could feel the most impact.
State GovernmentMost California Republicans in Congress won’t commit to certifying the 2024 presidential electionOctober 24, 2024Only one-third of the California GOP congressional delegation has pledged to accept the 2024 presidential election results. And only two incumbents in office in 2021 voted to certify President Joe Biden’s win over Donald Trump in the 2020 race.
EnvironmentFirst California project to bury climate-warming gases wins key approvalOctober 22, 2024Capturing and storing carbon underground is a big part of California’s efforts to tackle climate change but community members and environmentalists say it prolongs the life of fossil fuels.
