EnvironmentCalifornia becomes the first state to phase out toxic hexavalent chromiumMay 30, 2023The state Air Resources Board voted last week to ban the substance known as chromium 6, giving platers several years to switch to an alternative the platers say won’t produce the same chrome shine.
EnvironmentHow California’s record snowpack plays a part in wildfire seasonMay 30, 2023 | Manola SecairaA wet winter brought record snowpack to California and might change how and where wildfires pop up in the state during warmer months.
EnvironmentAlmond hulls in your coffee? Some growers look to upcycle almond byproducts into foodMay 25, 2023 | Vicki GonzalezAlmonds are a very water-intensive product to grow. The California Almond Board hopes to reduce waste by developing methods of upcycling almond hulls into products for human consumption. Listen / download audio Update RequiredTo play audio, update browser or Flash plugin.
EnvironmentAs wildfire smoke worsens public health, government watchdog calls EPA response 'ad hoc'May 25, 2023Congressional investigators say the use of a regulatory loophole to erase smoke pollution from the official record is on the rise.
State GovernmentDelta Tunnel plan touted by Newsom gets push-back from Congress memberMay 24, 2023 | Mike HagertyCongressman Josh Harder, who represents the Stockton area and has been opposed to the Delta tunnels project for five years, is speaking out against the governor's move.
EnvironmentOfficials warn residents to stay out of California’s faster, colder river watersMay 24, 2023 | Manola SecairaSnowmelt resulting from last winter’s record snowpack has caused more extreme river conditions, increasing the risk for people recreating in them.
EnvironmentColorado River deal: What does it mean for California?May 23, 2023Southern California growers agreed to use less water through 2026 and receive federal funds in return. But it’s not a long-term solution to the Colorado River’s water woes.
EnvironmentHere’s how to give feedback on Sacramento 2040 plans for climate, city growthMay 19, 2023 | Kristin LamThe public can view an online workshop until the end of August to help shape an update to the plans before the City Council approves them.
Health CareAs Sacramento summer heat approaches, unhoused people, housing advocates call for supportMay 18, 2023 | Janelle SalangaWith city, county bans on homeless camping and shelters cramped, potential sweeps leave unhoused people in a bind. Self-governed community Camp Resolution also seeks infrastructure to run fans and A/C.
State GovernmentLegislative Survivor: Which big California bills were shelved in ‘suspense file?’May 18, 2023In their twice-a-year exercise, legislators killed dozens of California bills in the process known as the suspense file.