economic inequality

California's latest Master Plan for Aging commendably underscore the need for policies to address the challenges aging populations face. But it fails to portray the realities for older adults in rural, low-income areas, who are at greater risk of poverty and homelessness.

California in 2014 decided undocumented people could qualify for LifeLine, a program that helps low income families afford internet and cell service. A decade later undocumented people still can’t get it.

When and if California legalizes sports gambling, the policy should honor the laws established in partnership with tribes decades ago, says Assemblyman James Ramos.

State officials want to prepare more Californians for good jobs — those that pay a stable, living wage and offer other benefits, such as a pathway for promotions. The state has spent roughly $370 million on these workforce programs, but the results are mixed.

After much political angst, California's community colleges have received limited authority to award four-year degrees. It's been a success for students that should be expanded.

High electric bills consumed 65% of a rural grocery store’s profit last year. Owners say they may close the store because of PG&E rate hikes.

As vitriol toward diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives grows, California school districts are crafting plans to support disadvantaged students, making once-mundane processes a target for backlash politics.

California's utility regulators are exploring energy bill reforms that would structure charges based on household income. If done correctly, the change could lower bills for most Californians and shift the cost for maintaining the grid to higher earners who can afford it.

Californians have a unique combination of high living costs, high poverty rates and large amounts of debt, factors that will likely influence debates over the state's budget deficit.

A California program providing trust funds, or "baby bonds," for foster youth and COVID orphans is giving traumatized young people a chance to pursue their dreams just like everyone else.