Government

New technology could change how produce is grown and harvested. Plus, Californians will vote on a one-time, 5% billionaire tax this November.

Nurses at Watsonville Community Hospital are protesting the closure of the NICU unit, and state legislators pass bills aimed at regulating the construction of new data centers.

The Plaskett Fire in Big Sur expands with aggressive growth. Lawmakers have passed a bill that would make it easier for the state to go after corporations with monopolistic behavior.

Firefighters are facing difficult conditions as they battle the Plaskett Fire. And, a Central Coast energy company is pushes for more transparency.

Monterey County is installing No Parking signs near Big Sur's Bixby Bridge. And, the state's Farm to School program is now a permanent part of the state budget.

Residents want the Gilroy City Council to make data center development harder. And, health officials say the cyclospora outbreak shouldn’t discourage people from eating fresh fruits and vegetables.

Big companies would have to disclose historical ties to slavery under a bill advancing in the legislature. And, some Democratic lawmakers want to consider reintroducing grizzly bears to California.

An ongoing investigation into the source of a food-borne illness outbreak now includes a false-positive for the pathogen. And, an effort to get rid of California’s top two primary system is underway.

Blood banks are facing a shortage of type O, with supplies dropping to a two-year low. And, Republican lawmakers say a new tax hike on private health insurers will drive up costs for Californians.

The Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission is currently removing all county emergency call boxes. And, a state senator wants to protect Altadena from real estate speculators while residents rebuild, but her bill also raises concerns.