Experts are predicting that by next summer or fall, El Niño will probably be in place, which could bode well for California and the West’s water outlook for several years.

The California Legislature reconvenes with record diversity, but with several key questions and many significant challenges. A soaring homeless population. A bitter battle with the oil industry over gasoline prices.

State health officials last year launched a first-ever competitive bidding process for its Medi-Cal insurance contracts, but when the winners were announced, several insurers complained about the process and its potential impact on patient care.

Nearly one-third of lawmakers — at least 37 of 120 — will be new to Sacramento, paving the way for new political dynamics and new legislative priorities.

California’s nursing agency has approved rules that will allow nurse practitioners to treat patients without physician supervision.

The new law makes California the first state that will automatically seal most criminal records for those who complete their sentences.

First returns before 9pm showed Newsom with 62%, and Dahle trailed with 38%, in early, unofficial returns

As other states restrict or ban abortions, the California laws aim to improve access and protect patients and clinicians. They will also expand services to accommodate an expected influx from other states.

The new law addresses serious problems with nursing home licensing in California, but some elder care advocates say it misses a chance to protect residents and consumers.

As Democratic control over the Legislature has become even more dominant, aggrieved businesses are creating their own ballot measures.

The governor also signed six climate bills into law, including one that keeps the Diablo Canyon nuclear power plant to stay open until 2030.

The New York Times spotlights San Jose police salary negotiations as a measure of the high cost of living in the Bay Area.

The Legislature has until Aug. 31 to approve the proposals, and the three most controversial bills have been shelved.

State legislators last week killed dozens of bills, including some controversial proposals on health care costs, social media regulation, pay transparency, climate change and much, more more.

Gov. Gavin Newsom last month aired campaign ads in the Sunshine State accusing Republican leaders of restricting abortion access, voting rights and free speech.

Abortion, guns, Covid, housing, nursing homes, criminal justice, unions, environment and internet are some of the top issues the Legislature will be tackling in August.