Democrats are advancing a bill over objections from rural residents, ranchers and Republicans that would study whether California should bring back grizzly bears.
StateWatch
Are California voters signaling tax fatigue toward school bonds and parcel taxes?
Though a limited sample, a smaller-than-average number of California districts passed school construction bonds and parcel taxes in June.
Newsom’s populist act: Oppose state billionaire tax, embrace federal one
With proposals to tax the rich, Gavin Newsom is playing to a 2028 national audience anxious about artificial intelligence. As California governor, he’s walked a fine line on taxes for years.
Trump’s new immigration strategy revealed in purchase of two ICE detention centers in California
The Trump administration is trying to lock down immigration detention capacity in California despite opposition from the state’s Democratic leaders.
Gavin Newsom’s return-to-office rules are stricter than many states, including Texas
California state workers must report to the office four days a week under an executive order from Gov. Gavin Newsom. Other states allow more remote work.
California restricts utility shutoffs as dangerous heat ripples across state
State regulators have rejected a proposal by utilities and ordered broader protections against power shutoffs during dangerous heat.
Here’s what the ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ federal housing bill means for California
The new federal housing law does a lot of little things. Supporters hope it will put a dent in both California and the nation’s housing shortage.
Should coastal commission get more power over rebuilding after wildfire? Some lawmakers say yes
A new proposal considers giving the powerful California Coastal Commission more oversight over homes destroyed by natural disasters.
California school libraries blindsided by ‘catastrophic’ budget cut
California’s latest budget cut $5.5 million for K-12 school libraries. That money pays online fees for student research materials.
California to share driver’s license data despite fears it could expose unauthorized immigrants
The new state budget that Gov. Gavin Newsom signed includes $55 million for the DMV to build a data-sharing system, a program meant to bring the state into compliance with the federal REAL ID law.

