Gov. Gavin Newsom vetoed one bill and signed another that could change how you purchase a vehicle in California.
Ryan Sabalow / CalMatters
Posted inLatest News
Think your kid’s done with a booster seat? New California law says maybe not
After pushback from some Democrats, a controversial bill that would have banned shorter children from the front seat was watered down. But small kids face new seat belt rules under a law Gov. Gavin Newsom signed last week.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
California lawmakers keep dodging tough bills by not voting. Here are the worst offenders
In the California Capitol, lawmakers almost never vote “no.” These three Democrats have decided it’s OK to buck protocol and vote against their colleagues’ bills. Check CalMatters’ database to see how Santa Cruz County’s representatives voted.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
California’s newest invaders are beautiful swans. Should hunters kill them?
California has tried to eradicate South American swamp rodents called nutria. Shooting destructive nonnative mute swans might be a tougher sell.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
No more calling ‘shotgun’? California could ban teens from riding in the front seat
A bill making its way through the California Assembly would require children up to 16 years old to ride in the back seat if they’re not tall enough. Middle schoolers up to age 13 would need to use booster seats if they’re tiny.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
Have federal agents served warrants at California’s Capitol? The Legislature doesn’t want you to know
California’s legislative leaders are refusing to disclose whether federal agents are investigating state lawmakers for corruption or if any taxpayer money was spent on their legal defense. Open government advocates argue that the public has a right to know.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
L.A. fires underscore how much California has to lose if Trump withholds disaster aid
The federal government typically covers 75% of rebuilding costs after a major disaster. President-elect Donald Trump has threatened to withhold firefighting money from California.
Posted inEducation
New law inspired by ex-lawmaker’s DUI adds to alcohol education in California schools
California public schools will expand alcohol education in 2025 thanks to a new law. The law’s author, Wendy Carrillo, wrote the legislation following her arrest for driving under the influence, saying she didn’t want students to make the same mistakes she did.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
California’s lemon law is changing and car buyers have fewer protections in the new year
Californians who purchase a clunker car in 2025 face a confusing year as new lemon law rules take effect and the state Supreme Court limited warranty protections for used vehicles. Lawmakers are revisiting the rules, but consumers could see weaker protections until new laws are passed.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
California’s Yes Man: Meet the Democratic lawmaker who has never said ‘no’ to a bill
Assemblymember Mike Fong is the only California lawmaker who has never voted “no” on a piece of legislation.