State GovernmentCalifornia lawmakers want to ban anti-union meetings at work, but will Newsom go along?September 5, 2024A bill passed by the Legislature on its last day is a top priority for California labor unions, who say “captive audience” sessions intimidate workers. Business groups say the bill violates employers’ free speech rights.
EnvironmentCalifornians to face steep fines for violating water orders under new legislationSeptember 4, 2024Ranchers who defied a state water order were only fined about $50 each. Under new legislation headed to the governor, some daily fines for water scofflaws can increase 20-fold.
State GovernmentCHP officers land a $500 million contract as Gov. Gavin Newsom races to fill vacanciesAugust 30, 2024California Highway Patrol officers received historically high raises in 2022 and 2023, but it continues to face a high vacancy rate of 16%.
State GovernmentThe future happens in California, Gavin Newsom says in praise of Kamala Harris. But what’s his?August 21, 2024California’s governor casts the state’s votes for Harris in the ceremonial roll call and gives her a rousing endorsement.
State GovernmentGavin Newsom signs new retail theft laws as voters weigh even tougher penaltiesAugust 16, 2024Gov. Gavin Newsom signed retail theft laws to address concerns about California property crime. Prop. 36 on the November ballot imposes tougher penalties.
EducationCalifornia’s two biggest school districts botched AI deals. Here are lessons from their mistakes.August 6, 2024Educators can learn caution from AI mistakes in Los Angeles and San Diego. But they also face pressure to adopt the technology quickly.
Health CareA soil fungus that can kill is on the rise in California: What to know about Valley feverAugust 5, 2024About 80 Californians die every year after contracting Valley fever, a fungal disease that typically affects the lungs. A recent outbreak was traced to a music festival in Kern County.
EducationCalifornia added a new grade for 4-year-olds. Are parents enrolling their kids?July 29, 2024The overall number of 4-year-olds in transitional kindergarten has increased. But as the program is being phased in, the percentage of eligible children enrolling has dropped.
Health CarePremiums for Covered California insurance will go up in 2025. Here’s how muchJuly 26, 2024Premium increases largely vary by region and plan, but most consumers will receive subsidies that will protect them from steep hikes.
State GovernmentUber, Lyft, DoorDash workers remain contractors due to California Supreme Court rulingJuly 25, 2024State’s highest court refuses to overturn voter-backed Prop. 22, a law written by the gig industry. The ruling means gig workers will remain independent contractors.
