New investigation into California’s law around homeless shelter inspections. An update on the Sites Reservoir project. Finally, introducing the new reporters on CapRadio’s state politics team.

Homeless Shelter Investigation

In 2021, California passed a new law requiring local governments to inspect homeless shelters, and file annual reports on their conditions. However, three years later a new investigation says cities and counties are largely ignoring the new law, even as California governments are taking a more aggressive approach to enforcing laws against camping in public spaces. CalMatters Investigative Reporter Lauren Hepler and Eve Garrow, Policy Analyst for the ACLU of Southern California join Insight to talk about the consequences of this lack of oversight, and what changes could be made to keep unhoused residents safe.

CalMatters is a nonprofit newsroom that partners with public media stations across the state.

Sites Reservoir Update

California is proceeding on plans to build its first new reservoir in decades about an hour north of Sacramento. The Sites Reservoir has faced several challenges over the years - including recent environmental litigation - but now expects to break ground in 2026 and start operations in 2032. Jerry Brown, Executive Director of the Sites Project Authority talks about the project’s history, how its water would be distributed, and the criticisms that surround the reservoir itself.

CapRadio Politics Team Introduction

CapRadio’s newsroom is expanding and boosting its presence in the State Capitol, from covering Governor Gavin Newsom, to the legislation that impacts everyday Californians and a busy election cycle this year. Politics reporters Laura Fitzgerald and Megan Myscofski talk about their backgrounds, and how they are tackling their new roles.