In today's newscast,
Emergency radio communications in Monterey County
Monterey County firefighters serving unincorporated areas face challenges in emergency communication. That’s according to a recent civil grand jury investigation.
The report found that 42% of Monterey County land lacks emergency radio coverage–leaving first responders without reliable communication during emergencies in those areas and putting lives and properties at risk.
The jury provided several recommendations, including radio equipment upgrades.
California Insurance Commissioner Race
The race for California Insurance Commissioner is usually a sleepy one. But as the state faces a worsening coverage crisis following wildfires, candidates say there’s a lot at stake.
Six leading candidates are running to replace the current commissioner, Ricardo Lara, who’s termed out.
Democratic State Sen. Ben Allen represents Pacific Palisades. Republican Merritt Farren lost his home in the Palisades Fire last year. Former Democratic State Sen. Steven Bradford has experience working for Southern California utilities. Republican Stacy Korsgaden worked in the insurance industry. Democrat Patrick Wolff has never held public office but is a financial analyst and two-time US chess champion. And Democrat Jane Kim is running as the most progressive candidate and leads the California Working Families Party.
All candidates agree premiums have gotten too expensive and the state needs more accountability for insurance companies. Some argue the state needs to bring more companies in to increase competition, while others say the state needs to take on a bigger role and explore public options for providing insurance.
The top two voter getters in the June Primary will head to the general election.
With reporting by CapRadio's Laura Fitzgerald.
For more on the candidates, see this story from our partner, CalMatters.
