CalMatters
CalMatters is a nonpartisan, nonprofit journalism venture committed to explaining how California’s state Capitol works and why it matters.
Environmental regulation, education, health care, criminal justice, economic inequality – the debates on these issues and others have a profound impact on the lives of 38 million Californians and beyond. Yet, mirroring trends across the country, there has been a significant decline in the number of journalists covering the Capitol in Sacramento. This has meant fewer eyes on decision makers, and a public that feels disconnected from its state government.
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A federal affordable internet subsidy is going away and 3 million Californians must decide whether to end access largely considered a human right.
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Supporters of a California trans youth ballot measure wanted to change the name assigned by the attorney general, but a judge said no.
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A California Republican’s bill would exempt low and middle income wildfire victims from solar panels requirements on rebuilt homes that didn’t have them when they burned down.
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A bill to ban homeless encampments statewide near parks, schools and transit hubs failed to get out of the same legislative committee as last year.
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Tenants in many new privately owned, low-income units will be protected from double-digit increases. So will some in existing units, after a state committee on affordable housing imposed a rent cap.
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Some of California’s top lawmakers want to clear up, but also rein in, the state’s most controversial housing statute.
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California is one of four states that levies a tax penalty on uninsured households. Many people paying the fines are eligible for heavily subsidized health insurance through Covered California.
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A new federal student aid application is blocking some students from completing their forms. Now California legislators are trying to extend the deadline for state student aid.
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California just began offering Disaster CalFresh benefits to San Diegans hurt by January storm. Some are seeking payment from the city.
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Sen. Mike McGuire of Healdsburg takes over as Democratic leader in the state Senate from Sen. Toni Atkins. He terms out in 2026, so has limited time to push his agenda.