Technology
Crackdown on power-guzzling data centers may soon come online in California
A spate of new bills in California and other states would protect consumers from electricity rate hikes that subsidize data centers.
Bay Area
Homelessness
California city makes ‘aiding’ or ‘abetting’ a homeless camp illegal
Outreach workers in the Bay Area city of Fremont worry the new ordinance could target them, despite assurances from the city.
Higher Education
Gutted courses, fewer majors, faculty layoffs: Who will feel Cal State’s 8% budget cut?
The Cal State system is bracing for a cut of $375 million — a result of rising costs and declining enrollment. University officials warn of fewer classes and faculty layoffs.
Justice
People are getting arrested under California’s new tough-on-crime law. Some counties aren’t ready
A key part of California's Proposition 36 promised to direct people convicted of certain drug crimes to treatment. Some counties are straining to make that happen without new funding.
California Divide
Trump’s executive orders on immigration are creating fear. What you need to know about them
A flurry of changes on immigration promises a dramatic crackdown. California pushed back in court last time, but may be in a tougher position now, experts say.
Politics
California regulators allege this Silicon Valley ex-lawmaker violated campaign finance law dozens of times
The report laid out dozens of potential violations by Evan Low involving a non-profit tech foundation for which he raised a half-million dollars. The regulators' findings are the result of a five-year state probe — launched immediately after CalMatters published an investigation into the relationship between Low, the foundation and its donors.
Climate Change
California’s surge in EV sales has stalled — so what happens to its landmark mandate?
About a quarter — 25.3% — of all new cars registered in California in 2024 were electric cars, compared with 25% in 2023. The flat sales follow several years of rapid growth, and sales are still far below the state's 35% target.
Homelessness
Should ‘aiding’ or ‘abetting’ a homeless camp be illegal? It may soon be a reality in this Bay Area city
The unusual move is alarming activists who worry they could be in the ordinance’s crosshairs.
Commentary
Housing reforms will help California tackle living costs. Berkeley might show us how
California has for years tiptoed around the housing crisis. Berkeley's reforms may be the way to resolve it.
Health
A California child tested positive for bird flu. Here’s why this case is different
Bird flu has been spreading among dairy workers in California's Central Valley, jumping from cows to people. A new suspected case in the Bay Area came from an unknown source.