Impact

A person in a suit and tie smiles while standing outdoors in front of a modern building, with a few people walking in the background under a clear blue sky.

Investigation

Judge begins to unwind conflicts in Ventura County conservatorship cases

Following a CalMatters investigation, a new judge has ordered Angelique Friend to stop hiring her husband’s companies with her clients’ money.

By Byrhonda Lyons • March 30, 2026

A person in a suit speaks into a microphone during a public hearing or meeting. Several officials sit behind them at a raised dais, listening as the speaker gestures while talking.

Investigation

‘We’re talking about people’s lives:’ California lawmakers grill DMV director on deadly failures

The state Senate's hearing on driving laws was spurred by a CalMatters investigation into California's approach to deadly drivers.

By Lauren Hepler and Robert Lewis • March 11, 2026

A group of officials and staff walk down a roadway beside a high chain-link fence topped with razor wire outside a large facility, with parked cars and low hills in the background under bright afternoon sun.

Justice

San Diego County sues ICE after it blocked health inspection at detention center

San Diego County is suing the Trump administration for illegally blocking officials from inspecting ICE detention centers. There have been ‘alarming reports’ about unsafe conditions inside the centers.

By Wendy Fry • March 10, 2026

A close-up view of a lawmaker, with short blonde hair and wearing a blue blazer, as they sit behind a dias during a congressional meeting.

Technology

Following CalMatters investigation, Congress finds data brokers cost consumers tens of billions of dollars

A congressional investigation estimates broker breaches have cost consumers $20 billion in identity theft. Major brokers now promise to make it easier to opt out of their databases.

By Colin Lecher • February 27, 2026

A person in a red blazer speaks at a podium bearing the California State Assembly seal, raising one hand for emphasis, while three others stand behind them between the U.S. and California flags beneath a backdrop of the State Capitol building.

Investigation

California has a dangerous driver problem. A bipartisan group of lawmakers wants to fix that

The Assembly proposals are part of a broader push at the Capitol to reform California's weak driving laws.

By Robert Lewis and Lauren Hepler • February 2, 2026

A white ambulance truck is parked in front of a light brown building with a sign that reads "Plumas Hospital District."

Health

She drove a hundred miles to give birth. New California laws are bringing maternity care closer to home

Three years after closing its maternity ward, a new state law will help a rural Northern California hospital bring birth services back to the community.

By Kristen Hwang • November 12, 2025

CalMatters Impact

Journalism that makes a difference