California legislature

The governor now has until May 14 to propose a revised budget to address the state’s record deficit.

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.

The bill also mandates ‘implicit bias training’ for existing medical professionals by June 1, 2025, and within six months for those opening new practices.

SB 1196 would remove the terminal illness requirement for those with ‘grievous and irremediable medical condition’ to use intravenous drugs to end their lives.

Critics say adding exemptions can create confusion for restaurant owners and burden the state with costs of determining eligibility.

Lawmakers behind the bill disputed claims that it would be detrimental to people of color.

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.

Only three members of the prior committee are still serving, improving the outlook for Republican bills cracking down on fentanyl and trafficking.

Commercial airlines would be exempt. The measure leaves it to the DMV to determine dollar amounts.

An Assembly bill would order the Public Utilities Commission to cut electricity rates by at least 30 percent.

The penalties, which could hit $1,000 for a third conviction, aim to discourage demonstrations that interfere with emergency vehicles.

The amount was an increase of about $40 million from the previous record set in 2022.

If passed, the measure would apply statewide, encompassing all municipalities including the 108 charter cities, overriding local election codes.

The measure was needed, its Assembly backer said, because mental health diversion has let some convicted individuals avoid prison.

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.