State lawmakers have introduced at least a dozen proposals that would make it harder to confront local officials at public meetings, shield more information from the public and relax rules on financial reports.
Sameea Kamal / CalMatters
Posted inPolitics & Policy
A loophole in California law makes it hard to prosecute threats against schools. Will lawmakers close it?
After a man threatened an elementary school in her San Diego district, Assemblymember Darshana Patel wants to close a loophole in the law that makes it harder to prosecute threats against places than individuals.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
Californians approved $1.5 billion for wildfire prevention. How will the state spend it?
Gov. Gavin Newsom has proposed spending climate bond money dedicated to wildfire mitigation in various ways. Some lawmakers think a focused strategy would be more effective.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
Why bills to help prevent California fires fail
Each year, California legislation aimed at better wildfire mitigation fails – often due to cost or conflict with environmental regulations.
Posted inLatest News
As California’s fire season grows, state senators push for more year-round firefighters
Senate President Pro Tem Mike McGuire proposed that state firefighters work full time in place of the seasonal workforce the agency currently staffs for nine months each year.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
The California Legislature set a record for women in office and could see historic gender parity
California’s Senate will reach gender parity, but depending on the outcome of some close contests, that could extend to the whole Legislature.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
The Legislature could override nearly every Newsom veto. Why doesn’t it?
About 90% of bills that California Gov. Gavin Newsom blocked this year passed with the support of more than two-thirds of legislators — enough to override a governor’s veto. But the Legislature hasn’t attempted to do so since 1979.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
Thousands in California’s jails have the right to vote — but here’s why many won’t
While incarcerated Californians who aren’t serving felony sentences are eligible to vote, most county jails don’t make it very easy. A bill on Gov. Gavin Newsom’s desk would test in-person voting in jails in three counties – including Santa Cruz County.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
What can California Democrats do for Kamala Harris? Flip the House
Party leaders at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago send a clear message to California delegates: Kamala Harris needs a Democratic Congress to succeed if she’s elected president.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
Why a Bay Area transit rescue plan is on hold
A Bay Area transit funding bill is delayed so supporters can seek consensus on how the money will be raised and distributed. Many California transit agencies are trying to avoid financial disaster and increase accountability.