Guest Commentary

California’s housing crisis produces untold human misery and environmental degradation. It also proves that control can no longer be local when the consequences are universal.

As climate change makes for more 100-degree days, California legislators are considering a bill to set a maximum indoor temperature standard for homes.

Assembly Bill 1400 would enable some of California’s community colleges to offer bachelor of nursing programs. Students could pursue their education in their communities, at a cost they could afford. 

California should audit the the Capitol annex project, examining its contracts, scope, budget decisions and financial dealings.

California courts often restrict defendants who are abuse victims from using evidence of violence against them as a defense. Lawmakers just rejected a bill that would allow it.

Independent pharmacies are closing across California and nationwide, and chain pharmacies aren’t far behind. Pharmacy benefit managers have a chokehold on prescriptions and their pricing.

California is considering a bill to limit how pharmacy benefit managers negotiate drug prices, which is one of the most effective tools for controlling prescription costs.

Gov. Gavin Newsom says these popular weight-loss drugs cost the state too much. But California could save about $3,000 per patient who lost weight. Other health conditions also would improve.

California legislators have a few more weeks to reform climate and gas credits to lower electricity bills and encourage electric vehicle use.

Californians with lived experience try to collaborate with policymakers to develop voluntary, community-based mental health services but are rejected.