February 5, 2025

Several individuals wearing protective gear and helmets work together to dig a firebreak in a forested area. Flames burn nearby, casting an orange glow on the scene, as smoke rises through the trees.

CalMatters en Español

A medida que aumenta la temporada de incendios, los senadores de California presionan para que haya más bomberos durante todo el año

El presidente pro tempore del Senado, Mike McGuire, propuso que los bomberos estatales trabajen a tiempo completo en lugar de la fuerza laboral estacional que la agencia actualmente tiene durante nueve meses cada año.

By Sameea Kamal • February 5, 2025

Two people hug a burned-down structure behind a fence while other people walk around in the destroyed neighborhood. Smoke lingers in the background, and green and palm trees remain in the haze.

Commentary

California faces its biggest call to action yet as climate-powered disasters worsen

After 2025 began with the deadly Los Angeles fires and a new presidential administration hostile to many environmental policies, this is California’s big call to act on climate.

By Mary Creasman and Mike Young • February 5, 2025

A plane with red and yellow stripes graphics on its tail is parked on the tarmac of an airport building. The scene is set against a backdrop of distant mountains and industrial buildings under clouds and blue sky.

Economy

Palm Springs airport gets OK for a multibillion-dollar upgrade

Regional airports like Palm Springs International Airlines are trying to expand international offerings after traffic declines during the pandemic.

By Deborah Brennan • February 5, 2025

California Wildfires

As fire season grows, California senators push for more year-round firefighters

Senate President Pro Tem Mike McGuire proposed that state firefighters work full time in place of the seasonal workforce the agency currently staffs for nine months each year.

By Sameea Kamal • February 5, 2025

The California State Capitol building is framed by trees on a clear day, with its white dome and classical architecture prominently visible. A Christmas tree is set up in front of the building, surrounded by parked cars and minimal street activity.

Commentary

One of California’s new ‘trailer bills’ has origins in Capitol’s long history of closed-door politics

One proposed trailer bill that would help deaf Californians, while quite innocuous in its effect, has an interesting and seamy backstory.

By Dan Walters • February 5, 2025