Democratic leaders reluctant to halt California gas tax hike

Amid record-high gas prices, California’s Democratic legislative leaders said Wednesday they are reluctant to adopt Gov. Gavin Newsom’s proposal to halt a gasoline tax increase scheduled to take effect in July because the resulting $500 million goes to vital programs.

California lawmakers want to reverse Prop 47; ‘make crime illegal again’

Hailed as a step toward criminal justice reform by supporters, Prop 47 downgraded charges pertaining to certain theft and drug possession crimes from a felony to a misdemeanor if the value of the stolen goods is less than $950. As a result, thieves feel emboldened to commit crimes because of the soft penalties, some California lawmakers say.

Republican state senator to challenge Newsom in California

California Republican state Sen. Brian Dahle will announce his candidacy for governor on Tuesday, one of the first Republicans to publicly challenge Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom since his decisive victory in a recall election just five months ago.

California Democrats revive universal health care bill

Democrats in the California Legislature on Thursday revived a plan for what could be the nation’s first universal health care system — prompting strong opposition from doctors and health insurers overtax increases for businesses and individuals that would pay for the plan and only if voters approved the tax hikes.

LA Council members use office funds to pay LAPD

Multiple LA City Council members used district funds to pay the LAPD for increased patrols in their districts, according to an LA Times report, including Councilmen Joe Buscaino and Paul Koretz.