Advocates and unions are objecting to Newsom’s proposed cuts to state spending on education, preschool, health and welfare programs.
Posted inEnvironment
A small fix could make a big difference in Tijuana River pollution: When will it happen?
As the U.S. and Mexico pursue $800 million in upgrades to wastewater facilities on the border, local officials are working on a smaller fix to improve conditions as soon as next year.
Posted inHigher Education
‘I felt like I wasn’t learning’: Community college students struggle with online education
About 40% of California’s community college courses are online now, redefining education. These courses are more accessible, college officials say, but they come with serious drawbacks.
Posted inTechnology
The form asked my permission to share my health data. Then it wouldn’t let me say no.
To experience what patients have to do to opt-out of having their data shared, I went to doctor’s appointments in seven states. One clinic showed me how easily dark patterns force patients to share their data with big healthcare networks, even when the privacy form they’re signing explicitly says they can opt-out.
Posted inCommentary
Our house burned down but our mortgage didn’t. California fire survivors need time
Palisades and Eaton fire survivors had 12 months’ relief before resuming mortgage payments. Lawmakers are voting on a bill that would give them three years’ forbearance.
Posted inTechnology
California judges are testing a new AI clerk, and you won’t know if it’s looking at your case
Courts in Los Angeles and Riverside counties are testing an artificial intelligence tool and deciding whether it can be used in high-stakes criminal cases.
Posted inElections
Get up to speed fast on the California election with our guide for the undecided
Californians are voting on a wide-open governor’s race. Xavier Becerra, Steve Hilton and Tom Steyer are leading in polls but only two will move on to the general election.
Posted inCommentary
Peaches, pears and PFAS: California lawmakers may limit ‘forever’ pesticides in foods
PFAS chemicals were found in nearly 40% of samples of nonorganic fruits and vegetables California regulators tested in 2023. A bill would ban their use.
Posted inCommentary
California treats homelessness spending as action. That’s not a measure of success
California understands the pathway into homelessness. What the state still lacks is a coordinated system designed to interrupt it before families lose housing.
Posted inPolitics
Lawmakers stripped the Board of Equalization of power. Now they’re fighting to join it
California’s Board of Equalization has a quirky history dating back to the 19th Century. It’s a launching pad to statewide political office, too.