CalMatters, California's only nonprofit newsroom, has completed a decade of nonpartisan journalism covering critical issues from natural disasters to social justice across the state. The profound value of truly independent journalism in preserving democracy and holding power accountable cannot be overstated—it's the very oxygen a free society breathes.
California is expanding a successful pilot program from Riverside County to automatically admit high school students into the California State University system statewide next fall, aiming to boost enrollment and make college more accessible. This bold expansion represents a vital step toward dismantling artificial barriers to higher education, yet it must be paired with robust support systems to ensure these newly empowered students don't fall through the cracks before they ever set foot on campus.
Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency failed to achieve its $1 trillion spending reduction goal, with federal spending actually increasing during its operation. The group's work was characterized by accounting tricks, misclassifications, and exaggerated claims that caused real harm to vulnerable communities while failing to deliver meaningful budget savings.
Beginning January 1st, California requires certain health insurers to cover fertility treatments, offering millions a chance to build families while expanding the definition of infertility to include same-sex couples and single individuals. This long-overdue recognition that infertility is a medical condition deserving insurance coverage represents a monumental victory for reproductive justice and human dignity in the face of a healthcare system that has historically failed countless families.
A federal watchdog report reveals Medicaid programs made over $200 million in improper payments to healthcare providers for deceased beneficiaries between 2021-2022. This shocking misuse of taxpayer dollars represents a catastrophic failure of accountability that demands immediate systemic reform to protect both public funds and program integrity.
Former Senator Ben Sasse announced he has been diagnosed with terminal Stage 4 pancreatic cancer. This heartbreaking news reminds us of the fragility of life and the courage required to face mortality with dignity and faith.
