California's 2025 Budget Cuts: Major Changes Ahead for State Services
California faces significant budget challenges in 2025, with an 8% reduction in state agency funding and $12 billion being drawn from reserves to address a $56 billion shortfall. Key impacts include cuts to education, housing programs and government workforce reductions.
California State Parks Launches Free New Year's Day Guided Hikes for 2025
Start your year with complimentary guided hikes across California's State Parks on January 1, 2025. Join experienced guides to explore stunning trails while learning about local geology, wildlife and cultural heritage as part of the nationwide First Day Hikes initiative.
California Health Insurance Enrollment Surge: Critical Deadlines Approach for 2025 Coverage
Covered California reports record-high enrollment numbers as 1.8 million residents secure health coverage for 2025. Despite a 7.9% premium increase, enhanced financial assistance programs offer relief through federal subsidies and reduced costs.
California's Next Governor: Term Limits End Newsom's Tenure as 2026 Race Takes Shape
Governor Gavin Newsom's second term will be his last due to California's constitutional term limits, setting the stage for a competitive 2026 election. Multiple high-profile Democrats have already announced their candidacy while others, including prominent Republicans, consider entering the race.
California Places Over 650 Dairy Farms Under Quarantine Amid H5N1 Bird Flu Crisis
California health officials have quarantined more than 650 dairy farms to contain the spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1). While the virus severely impacts poultry, its effects on cattle are limited, though officials maintain strict preventive measures including PPE distribution and enhanced monitoring.
California's E-Bike Voucher Program Halts After Massive 45-Minute Application Rush
California's new electric bicycle voucher program was forced to close applications after receiving nearly 100,000 submissions within just 45 minutes of launch. The overwhelming response highlights growing public interest in sustainable transportation, though left many hopeful applicants unable to access the eco-friendly vehicle incentives.
Online Threats Unravel: Carlsbad Resident Linked to Wisconsin School Shooting Plot
A 20-year-old California man is under investigation after authorities discovered his communications with the Wisconsin school shooter about coordinated attacks on a government building. The revelation comes amid an ongoing probe into Monday's deadly shooting at a Madison school that left two dead and two critically injured.
California State Parks Launch 2024 with Statewide First Day Guided Hikes
Over 70 California state parks are welcoming visitors on New Year's Day with guided hikes ranging from gentle nature walks to challenging summit climbs. The annual tradition features expert-led excursions across diverse landscapes, including notable experiences in Bay Area parks like Angel Island and Mount Diablo.
California's Population Surge: State Rebounds Close to Pre-Pandemic Levels
California added 233,000 residents in 2024, marking its second year of growth and nearly reaching its 2020 peak of 39.5 million people. The rebound suggests a reversal of the pandemic-era exodus, driven by decreased outmigration and strong international immigration.
Hidden Pesticide Crisis: California Cannabis Industry's Testing Loopholes Expose Health Risks
Recent testing reveals half of legal cannabis vapes in California contain unmonitored pesticides, with some products showing higher contamination than black market alternatives. The investigation exposes critical gaps in state regulations while highlighting specific health risks from pesticide exposure through inhalation.