‘Catastrophic staffing shortage’ hits California’s rural police first, and hardestDecember 17, 2022Sheriff ends daytime patrols in Tehama, reflecting officer shortage throughout California and national trend. Law enforcement blames low pay and tougher regulations; lawmakers and civil rights advocates disagree.
‘When they took the foundation, everything started crumbling’: California group fights eminent domain, racismDecember 7, 2022Where is My Land aims to help Black families regain property, sometimes decades after a government takes it. Though hundreds seek this help, founder Kavon Ward says her group focuses on a few cases at a time.
State GovernmentIs California’s beleaguered jobless benefits agency ready for a recession?December 5, 2022California’s Employment Development Department struggled to keep up with the demands of the pandemic. But a potential recession isn’t likely to be as intense, and the department has made changes that could smooth the process of getting benefits.
Screening for adverse childhood experiences is increasing, but are patients getting treatment?November 30, 2022Medi-Cal doctors are screening more patients for adverse childhood experiences, but they aren’t required to report whether those patients receive therapy or other services they may need.
Are California’s Hispanic Serving Institutions living up to their name?November 19, 2022California has the most Hispanic Serving Institutions among its colleges of any state — 174, including 21 of 23 California State University campuses and five of the nine University of California campuses.
Health CareNurse practitioner requirements are changing, allowing them to practice without physician supervisionNovember 16, 2022The new rules will improve access to health care in many communities where it is lacking, supporters say. Some physicians are concerned the rules will expand the scope of services nurse practitioners provide.
State GovernmentWill this be the most diverse California Legislature ever?November 14, 2022While votes are still being counted, it appears that the next Legislature will include the most women and LGBTQ members ever. Advocacy groups are already celebrating, but how much difference will the diversity make in policy?
EnvironmentRural ranchers face $4,000 proposed fine for violating state drought orderNovember 13, 2022The penalty is the maximum the ranchers — who pumped Shasta River water for eight days — could face under state law. It amounts to about $50 per rancher, which is no deterrent, ranchers and officials agree.
State GovernmentWhat’s next for sports betting in California?November 12, 2022Voters resoundingly rejected Propositions 26 and 27, but that doesn’t end the debate over California sports betting. Those behind the ballot measures are figuring out their next steps.
Poverty drops in California but only because of child tax credit, COVID relief fundsNovember 7, 2022If you haven’t filed for a child tax credit, now’s the time to do it. A deadline approaches.
