EnvironmentA huge solar storm is hurtling toward the Earth. Scientists say you should look upMay 10, 2024An aurora could be visible as far south as Northern California. Experts say the storm could disrupt some communications and navigation systems like GPS.
State GovernmentCalifornia says restaurants must bake all of their add-on fees into menu pricesMay 10, 2024Service charges; resort fees; "surcharge" add-ons: A new state law requiring price transparency is set to take effect in July. Until now, no one knew how it would apply to restaurants.
EducationViolence erupts at UCLA as protests over Israel's war in Gaza escalate across the U.S.May 1, 2024Members of pro-Palestinian and pro-Israel groups in Los Angeles clashed, with reports of fireworks and pepper spray use. Elsewhere, universities are tearing down encampments and arresting students.
Environment130 million Americans routinely breathe unhealthy air, report findsApril 25, 2024Climate change is making it harder to meet clean air goals, says the 25th annual State of the Air report from the American Lung Association.
EnvironmentStartups want to cool Earth by reflecting sunlight. There are few rules and big risksApril 23, 2024In a parking lot and on San Francisco Bay, NPR witnesses two different tests for solar geoengineering to tackle climate change. With much science unsettled, experts say regulations aren't keeping up.
EnvironmentWildfire smoke contributes to thousands of deaths each year in the U.S.April 18, 2024Two new studies show the unseen toll smoke is taking on people across the country. Climate change is likely to make the problem even bigger.
State GovernmentThe most detailed look yet at the 'exodus' of local voting officialsApril 9, 2024A new report finds more election officials are leaving their jobs now than at any point in the past two decades. But the report also adds new context to the phenomenon.
State GovernmentBlack market cannabis thrives in California despite legalizationApril 8, 2024Marijuana legalization was expected to bring the industry out of the shadows. But in some states, the black market is alive and well.
EnvironmentWatching a solar eclipse without the right filters can cause eye damage. Here's whyApril 4, 2024When the April 8 solar eclipse draws eyes upward, having proper solar filters and solar eclipse glasses is essential to avoid potentially permanent eye damage, doctors say.
State GovernmentHalf a million California workers will get $20 minimum wage, starting this weekApril 2, 2024It's a big win for cooks, cashiers and other fast-food employees, among the least paid in the workforce. Restaurant owners and franchisees warn of higher prices and cuts to workers' hours.