State GovernmentGavin Newsom’s return-to-office rules are stricter than many states, including TexasJuly 20, 2026California state workers must report to the office four days a week under an executive order from Gov. Gavin Newsom. Other states allow more remote work.
State GovernmentJudge says Paramount and Warner must halt merger for at least two weeks, granting states' requestJuly 20, 2026A federal judge on Monday ordered Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery to halt their $81 billion merger for at least two weeks, allowing states that are challenging the deal more time to see their case through in court.
State GovernmentCalifornia restricts utility shutoffs as dangerous heat ripples across stateJuly 17, 2026California bars utilities from cutting off power to customers who fall behind on their bills when it’s dangerously hot outside – a basic safety protection.
EducationA new review of the SAT at University of California is coming by June 2027July 16, 2026The University of California will still evaluate the role of the SAT in undergraduate admissions, despite media reports indicating that the revered public university system suspended those deliberations.
State GovernmentGov. Newsom signs legislation making Farm to School funding permanentJuly 16, 2026 | Chris FeltsThe bill establishes over $24 million in ongoing annual funding to support small and mid-sized farmers who supply fresh produce to public school classrooms. The goal is to strengthen regional food systems and expand nutrition education.
Health CareAs GOP cries fraud, Newsom backs Medicaid spending on housing and foodJuly 14, 2026Despite criticism from congressional Republicans and growing scrutiny from the Trump administration, Gov. Gavin Newsom, a Democrat considering a presidential run, said he’s proud of California’s spending on social services in Medi-Cal.
State GovernmentHundreds of economists say 'we must act now' on AI’s economic impact and job displacement risksJuly 14, 2026Hundreds of economists urge immediate action to address AI's potential impact on the economy. In an open letter released Monday, they warn that AI could transform the economy and displace many jobs.
State GovernmentCalifornia agencies disciplined officers for biased conduct, but they rarely lost their jobsJuly 14, 2026California disciplinary records show officers who used racist, sexist and anti-LGBTQ language often kept their jobs after agencies sustained misconduct findings.
State GovernmentState funding gives California small farmers a reprieve after federal food program endsJuly 13, 2026 | Gerardo ZavalaGovernor Gavin Newsom approved $15 million to temporarily replace the federal Local Food Assistance Program (LFPA) that helped schools and food banks buy directly from small farms. Listen /Update RequiredTo play audio, update browser or Flash plugin.
State Government12 states challenge Paramount's takeover of Warner Bros, say merger would 'extinguish competition'July 13, 2026California and 11 other states challenged Paramount’s takeover of Warner Bros. Discovery on Monday, filing a lawsuit that argues the $81 billion mega merger would “extinguish competition” in Hollywood and threaten jobs across the industry.
