Focus
California legislature
Newsom Signs Early Action Plan to Cut $17.3 Billion From California’s Budget Deficit
The governor now has until May 14 to propose a revised budget to address the state’s record deficit.
Faced With Record Deficit, California Legislature Passes Early Action Budget Plan
Gov. Gavin Newsom is under fire for recommending a one-day delay for $1.6 billion in payroll costs to push the expense into the next fiscal year.
California Bill Mandating ‘Pregnancy Dignity’ for ‘Birthing Persons’ Passes Health Committee
The bill also mandates ‘implicit bias training’ for existing medical professionals by June 1, 2025, and within six months for those opening new practices.
California Bill Would Expand Assisted Suicide to Out-of-State Residents, Mentally Ill
SB 1196 would remove the terminal illness requirement for those with ‘grievous and irremediable medical condition’ to use intravenous drugs to end their lives.
Newsom Approves More Exemptions for California’s Fast-Food Minimum Wage
Critics say adding exemptions can create confusion for restaurant owners and burden the state with costs of determining eligibility.
California Bill Allowing Warrantless Shoplifting Arrests Gaining Bipartisan Support Despite Criticism Against ‘Mass Incarceration’
Lawmakers behind the bill disputed claims that it would be detrimental to people of color.
More Exemptions for California’s Fast Food Minimum Wage Law Awaiting Newsom’s Signature
AB 610 would exempt restaurants located in certain venues—including theme parks, airports, and stadiums, among others—from the $20 per hour minimum wage law.
New Faces on California Assembly’s Public Safety Committee Work Toward Solutions
Only three members of the prior committee are still serving, improving the outlook for Republican bills cracking down on fentanyl and trafficking.
California Bill Would Require Registration Fees, Emissions Taxes for Aircraft
Commercial airlines would be exempt. The measure leaves it to the DMV to determine dollar amounts.
Republican Lawmakers Seek to Lower Californians’ Power Bills, Cap Rates
An Assembly bill would order the Public Utilities Commission to cut electricity rates by at least 30 percent.
California Bill Would Increase Fines for Protesters Blocking Highways
The penalties, which could hit $1,000 for a third conviction, aim to discourage demonstrations that interfere with emergency vehicles.
Record-Setting Nearly Half-Billion Dollars Spent Lobbying in California in 2023
The amount was an increase of about $40 million from the previous record set in 2022.
California Bill Would Block Cities From Requiring IDs to Vote
If passed, the measure would apply statewide, encompassing all municipalities including the 108 charter cities, overriding local election codes.
Bipartisan Bill Would Add Attempted Murder to List of Crimes Requiring Jail Time
The measure was needed, its Assembly backer said, because mental health diversion has let some convicted individuals avoid prison.
State Bill Would Ban Disposable Cups for Dine-In Customers
Such disposable tableware produced more than 500,000 tons of waste in 2021, according to CalRecycle, which oversees the state’s waste management and recycling.
