California will award $227 million in Proposition 64 grants to boost enforcement, youth prevention and environmental cleanup tied to illegal cannabis activity. The fourth funding cohort pushes Prop 64 awards past $350 million statewide.

A California bill to let insurers use smartphone and in‑car telematics for rates has drawn sharp criticism from consumer and privacy groups over tracking, retention and equity risks.

City Council deferred a plan to raise some downtown meter rates and extend paid hours after a flood of public comment. The proposal would affect about 1,600 meters and is projected to bring in roughly $1.2M a year.

Sam Liccardo unveiled the SKILL Act at West Valley College, proposing federal tax credits to push companies to train and hire community‑college graduates for AI roles.

Two North County councilmembers have launched campaigns for San Mateo County’s District 5 following David Canepa’s countywide victory, a race that could change the board's makeup.

Kitty Felde says a fictional 'Papa' in her Fina Mendoza mysteries was modeled on Xavier Becerra — a detail that feels timely after Becerra topped the June primary.

AB 2129 would push Cal Fire salaries within 15% of 20 local departments, but Assembly estimates peg the cost at $373M–$609M — forcing a clash between recruitment needs and budget limits. Lawmakers and the governor face a tough choice.

An Oakland immigration attorney says TSA told him he was placed on a watchlist after a 45‑minute SFO screening; his legal team has filed a FOIA to press for answers. Advocates are watching closely.

Gov. Gavin Newsom and Xavier Becerra were photographed meeting at Tommy's in San Francisco; both teams described the chat as policy-focused.

Alameda County will outlaw all fireworks in its unincorporated communities starting July 2, 2026, and hold hosts and property owners liable with escalating fines. Officials say the move aims to cut fires, injuries and holiday calls.

A new San Jose fire station built with bond money is finished but unstaffed as the city delays opening amid budget shortfalls. Councilmembers are exploring overtime and grant options to staff the building.

A San Francisco federal judge temporarily barred ICE from making civil arrests at immigration courts nationwide, finding the agency’s policy change unlawful and chilling court attendance.

California's health regulator penalized Blue Shield $300,000 after finding the insurer denied newborn-care claims and mishandled appeals. The DMHC ordered corrective action and urged affected families to seek help.