Economic Inequality

At least 24 Black women are running for seats in the California Legislature this year, resulting from years of work cultivating new leaders and growing confidence among voters.

The long history of redlining and downzoning helped create the racial disparities in California's homeless population. The barriers impeding housing development and access for Black communities must be addressed – and fast.

Gov. Gavin Newsom's proposed budget would cut at least $25.5 million of rental support for young people who have been in foster care. Approving the cut could put their housing security at risk.

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.