-
Illustration by Miguel Gutierrez Jr./CalMattersOperators of mental health support lines are laying off staff and ceasing or curtailing services due to California budget cuts and a 2024 ballot measure. -
Manuel Orbegozo/CalMattersCalifornia Democrats were split on a proposal that would have extended an eviction grace period for tenants who fall behind on their rent. It’s the latest setback for progressive lawmakers seeking renter protections.
-
Major changes to the California Environmental Quality Act include an exemption for high-tech industrial plants and other projects. The move, fast-tracked under pressure from Gov. Gavin Newsom, sparked fierce pushback from environmental, community and labor groups. -
No immediate hike in California gas prices will occur but Democrats and Republicans in the Legislature fear the effects of the clean-fuel program. -
The Legislature is considering phasing out chemical additives in school meals linked to health problems. Opponents say the definitions are so broad that it could ban items like tomato sauce and olive oil. -
The budget deal between Gov. Gavin Newsom and the Legislature forgoes or delays many of Newsom’s proposed cuts but the deficit is only likely to grow. -
California’s main source of homelessness funding would drop from $1 billion last year to $0 this year in the proposed state budget. -
2025 is shaping up to be a banner year for legislation aimed at boosting new housing construction. Rental rights bills are facing an “uphill battle.” -
Gov. Gavin Newsom proposed major cuts to Medi-Cal and other social programs to close a $12 billion deficit. Democrats in the state Legislature are pushing back, proposing more borrowing. -
Proposed legislation hasn’t moved out of the state Assembly or Senate, raising questions about how far California will go in its efforts to make oil and gas companies pay for climate damage. -
CalMatters found dozens of examples of previously vetoed legislation returning in subsequent years. A twice-killed bill about driverless trucks exemplifies why. -
Artificial intelligence — or AI — might already be in your doctor’s office. Some providers use it to take notes at appointments or do administrative tasks. -
Tax credits for the parents of young children. A state-funded scientific research institute. Exempting service workers’ tips from state income tax ... Those are among the hundreds of proposals California lawmakers swiftly rejected Friday under the banner of cost savings. -
House Republicans want to ban state AI regulations for 10 years. California leaders are alarmed.
