The new federal number is billed as an alternative to 911 for people experiencing mental health emergencies. A bill would allow California to fund call centers with new fees on phone lines.
CalMatters
‘This isn’t our first drought; it won’t be the last’: Every Californian must be part of the response
We must bolster drought resilience, and that starts with all Californians being “water wise” — understanding where water comes from and what they can do to preserve this precious resource.
California cuts cannabis taxes to heal ailing industry
Gov. Gavin Newsom and the Legislature cut a California cannabis tax, but not everyone is convinced it’s enough to stabilize the legal market. Social equity operators say the changes don’t do nearly enough to help them.
California climate rules won’t be undercut by Supreme Court’s ruling, experts say
The Supreme Court’s decision to limit federal environmental protection rules will have little to no effect on California’s carbon-reduction policies, according to experts — and state leaders say they are doubling down on their climate commitment.
California might rescue its last nuclear power plant — and give PG&E millions to do it
State lawmakers are considering funding that could save California’s Diablo Canyon nuclear power plant in their bid to avoid power shortages.
California tax relief: What’s in the deal
After weeks of talks, Gov. Gavin Newsom and legislative leaders have agreed on a tax relief plan that includes refunds of as much as $1,050. It is part of a $300 billion budget deal announced Sunday night.
After Roe: What happens to abortion in California?
Now that the U.S. Supreme Court has overturned the Roe v. Wade decision, here are key takeaways of what to expect for abortion in California. They include the politics, more legislation — including Gov. Gavin Newsom signing a bill Friday to protect California abortion providers from civil liability amid possible influx of out-of-state patients.
California legislators want to help you buy a house with down payment, ‘shared equity’
Legislators propose a $1-billion-a-year down payment program for first-time buyers, given the high cost of housing and rising mortgage interest rates, in exchange for a partial stake.
Topsy-turvy top-two: Is California primary system keeping its promises?
After 10 years, the top-two California primary system is under fire again, but the problems may have more to do with political gamesmanship. A strategy in a state Senate district appears to have backfired.
Overworked California firefighters struggle with PTSD, suicide, fatigue, intensifying wildfires
Cal Fire faces a mental health crisis. As wildfires burn year-round, thousands of overworked California firefighters carry a heavy load of trauma, pain and grief. They leave a fire but the fire never leaves them.

