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The curious case of California’s disappearing kids
For the first time since the start of the century, fewer than 6 million kids are attending California public schools.
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California lawmakers recess as crises collide
California lawmakers are calling for urgent action on gas tax relief and crime, but it may take a while to see meaningful progress.
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Strict COVID vaccine bills could face uphill battle
Vaccine bills, including one to pull state funding from law agencies that oppose public health orders, are facing headwinds.
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California eyes citizen lawsuits over illegal guns
Lawmakers advance a California gun control bill to allow citizens to sue manufacturers and distributors over illegal and "ghost" weapons.
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Lawmakers double down on mental health reform
Elected officials are zeroing in on mental health reform, as well as gun control, as voters show increasing concern on crime and homelessness.
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Sacramento mass shooting supercharges crime debate
CalMatters is dedicated to explaining how state government impacts our lives. Your support helps us produce journalism that makes a difference. Donate now. Just blocks from the state Capitol where legislators have crafted arguably the toughest gun control laws in the country, at least two shooters early Sunday morning killed at least six people and injured another […]
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Kounalakis becomes first woman to sign a bill into California law
Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis signed an eviction protection measure, becoming the first woman in California history to sign a bill into law.
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Newsom heads to Central, South America
By the time you read this, Gov. Gavin Newsom and his family will have started their spring break in Central and South America.
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California moves to limit slavery reparations after key vote
The first-in-the-nation California reparations commission votes to limit payments largely to descendants of slaves.
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Dems propose new tax on gas suppliers
Democrats in the Legislature propose a new California gas tax on suppliers when prices spike. Republicans are incensed by the move.