POLICY & POLITICS
The Maddy Institute
Maddy Associates Luncheon Speaker Series: September 13, Robert Maxim, Senior Research Associate in the Brookings Metropolitan Policy Program, will discuss how regional public universities can have a large role in economic growth in economically distressed areas.
Newsom recall basics: How to vote in California’s election
CalMatters
A FAQ on the California election on whether to recall Gov. Gavin Newsom.
See also:
● Key Recall Dates in San Joaquin Valley Counties
● Recall Ballot Tracking
COVID Update:
● ICU bed shortage in California's Central Valley region reaches critical surge level San Francisco Chronicle
● California’s Central Valley overwhelmed by COVID-19 Delta surge Los Angeles Times
North SJ Valley:
COVID Update:
● Sept. 10: Stanislaus adds seven deaths. Hospital cases decline Modesto Bee
● Hospitals in Stanislaus County are overrun with COVID-19 patients. Most are unvaccinated Modesto Bee
Stanislaus County COVID-19 health order requires masks inside. A city council defied it
Modesto Bee
Three members of the Oakdale City Council failed to wear face masks at their first meeting following a Stanislaus County order requiring them to be worn in indoor public spaces.
A tale of two cities: Modesto and Manteca’s contrasting approaches to housing development
Modesto Bee
Homeownership is a goal for many couples and families across the Central Valley, but sky-high prices and low inventory levels are pushing the dream further and further away from reality.
Merced County is seeking community input on public transit needs
Fox 26 News
Merced County Association of Government (MCAG) and the Social Services Transportation Advisory Council (SSTAC) are seeking community input about the future of public transportation in Merced County.
Stanislaus, Merced counties seeking public input for redistricting
Turlock Journal
Stanislaus and Merced counties are working with the community to make sure the current redistricting process is guided by transparency, bipartisanship, and public input to ensure the new map reflects the will of voters, allows for competitive county elections, and fairly represents all communities.
Central SJ Valley:
COVID Update:
● Fresno hospitals remain in COVID crisis mode, as ICU beds dwindle over Labor Day weekend Fresno Bee
● COVID-19 deaths are few among vaccinated residents in Fresno, Valley. Here’s the data Fresno Bee
Larry Elder talks to farmers in Fresno about California water issues. What’s his solution?
Fresno Bee
Republican recall candidate Larry Elder met with a group of farmers Thursday in Fresno to talk about water, jobs, crime and other issues during a stop on his push to unseat Gov. Gavin Newsom.
See also:
● Recall campaigns making final election pitches in Fresno. Plus, the latest on ballots Fresno Bee
● California recall candidate Larry Elder draws hundreds to Clovis campaign stop Fresno Bee
● Warszawski: Governor of Clovis? If it were only that simple for GOP recall hopeful Larry Elder Fresno Bee
● Gavin Newsom blasts Larry Elder at Fresno stop, says GOP win would hurt women, immigrants Fresno Bee
● Gov. Newsom visits Downtown Fresno business Business Journal
Video: ‘Back in School & COVID: What Fresno parents need to know’
Fresno Bee
Students and educators are in their third school year living with COVID-19. For the first time in a year and a half, most children are back to regular in-person learning, five days a week. Although students are back in school, things aren’t as they used to be.
Who has received emergency rent assistance in Fresno 6 months into program?
Fresno Bee
Roughly six months into the city of Fresno’s emergency rental assistance program, only about 13% of qualified applicants have received rental assistance that amounts to about $7.8 million.
Fresno’s airport just set an all-time passenger record. Here’s why some aren’t happy
Fresno Bee
Travelers through Fresno Yosemite International Airport smashed an all-time record in July, the first time in which more than 100,000 passengers flew aboard departing domestic airline flights in a single month.
Nonprofits working together under DRIVE to achieve equality in Fresno
abc30
DRIVE stands for Developing the Region's Inclusive and Vibrant Economy, and organizers say working with grassroots groups will help achieve real change.
Visalia Unified superintendent search underway, community input wanted
Visalia Times Delta
The search for Visalia Unified’s next superintendent is officially underway, and the district wants input from community members. VUSD wants to know: What are the top qualities you want to see in the next Visalia Unified superintendent?
Sierra Club sues Visalia over change in ag mitigation policy
The Business Journal
Less than a month after the Visalia City Council threw out their adopted Ag Mitigation Program (AMP) the Sierra Club has sued Visalia over the change.
Fresno announces 21 preliminary permits for cannabis stores
Business Journal
The City of Fresno announced the preliminary approvals for cannabis retail businesses in the city. On Wednesday, the Office of Cannabis Oversight released a document listing 21 cannabis permits given preliminary approval for retail store fronts.
See also:
● Fresno finally approves its weed dispensary licenses. Here are the 21 locations Fresno Bee
South SJ Valley:
COVID Update:
● Kern County Hispanic Chamber named 'Chamber of the Year' for pandemic efforts Bakersfield Californian
● School districts unveil dashboards with information about positive COVID cases Bakersfield Californian
Elections Division to open Saturday for voters needing assistance
Bakersfield Californian
The Kern County Elections Division will be open Saturday for those needing voting assistance. The office, located at 1115 Truxtun Ave., will be open from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Asm Fong's bill to crack down on illegal vehicle 'sideshows' heads to governor
Bakersfield Californian
Legislation authored by Assemblyman Vince Fong, R-Bakersfield, to crack down on illegal street racing by allowing courts to suspend for up to six months the driver's license of anyone participating in "sideshows" is heading to the governor's desk.
KHSD board: Extensive new boundaries are key for a growing district
Bakersfield Californian
The opening of Del Oro High School in fall 2022 prompted the board of the Kern High School District to approve some of the biggest changes to individual school boundaries in its history.
See also:
● Kern High School District approves redistricting for new high school Bakersfield Californian
Even as triple-digit temps linger like a bad fever, September is light at the end of summer's tunnel
Bakersfield Californian
Bakersfield has been keeping track of its daily weather since the 1890s, and on Wednesday, the city tied its third-place score for the number of days it has reached 100 degrees or hotter in a single year.
Washington Post
House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) is asking the Supreme Court to review and overturn the House’s proxy voting rules, which were adopted last year to allow lawmakers to cast votes remotely as a pandemic precaution.
State:
COVID Update:
● Urban California taming virus surge, but areas with low vaccination rates still in danger Los Angeles Times
● Editorial: Firefighters, police should support vaccine mandates if they truly care about communities Los Angeles Times
● Younger unvaccinated Californians increasingly hospitalized with COVID-19 Los Angeles Times
● Biden, LA schools, ratchet up vaccine mandates. More coming to California? Mercury News
Use our new tool to learn about your legislators and monitor their voting behavior
CalMatters
Six years ago, we started CalMatters with a bold mission to deliver strong public service journalism that empowers Californians to engage with their state government. I’m excited to share with you that we’re continuing this commitment with the launch of Glass House: California Legislator Tracker.
California Citizens Redistricting Commission
Provide input by using our online COI Tool today. If you already did, we thank you for your participation. Make sure your network does as well. It's easy and fun!
● What is a Community of Interest (COI)?
● How will the Commission use Community of Interest (COI)?
● Why Participate?
California recall candidates stretch the truth on COVID, climate change and more CalMatters
California recall candidates are sometimes playing loose with the facts on the campaign trail. Here’s an analysis of some of their claims.
See also:
● Obama says California recall vote is difference ‘between protecting our kids and putting them at risk’ in new TV ad Mercury News
● California voters worry about wildfires. Here’s what recall election candidates say they’ll do Sacramento Bee
● California voters say housing is important. Here’s where Newsom recall candidates stand Sacramento Bee
● What one thing do Republican recall candidates blame for California’s housing crisis? CalMatters
● Faulconer finances: He pays one company with campaign funds, receives income from another San Diego Union-Tribune
● Commentary: How strategy of replacement candidate in recall may play out CalMatters
California recall: About a quarter of voters have returned their ballots
Visalia Times Delta
More than a quarter of registered voters returned ballots in the week leading up to the election date to bring back California Governor Gavin Newsom. According to initial data, Republicans need to increase their pace to expel the Democratic governor.
See also:
● California recall election: How many ballots have been returned in your county? abc30
● These California counties have the highest, lowest Gavin Newsom recall election turnout so far SF Gate
● California recall: New polls favor Newsom by comfortable margin Visalia Times Delta
● New California poll shows Gavin Newsom likely to defeat recall by a substantial margin Sacramento Bee
● What to watch for on California governor recall election night Visalia Times Delta
● Your guide to the 2021 recall election in California Los Angeles Times
● Opinion: Recall election is another assault on Black voters CalMatters
● Many tech leaders are financially supporting Newsom, wary of what a replacement would bring New York Times
● Latinos Shape California. Why Are So Many Sitting Out the Recall? New York Times
● Opinion: California’s Recall Election Is Broken New York Times
● Video: California’s 2021 Recall Election Public Policy Institute of California
● Podcast: Gov. Jerry Brown What is California?
Newsom stakes his future on one simple argument: Fear a GOP governor Los
Angeles Times
Gov. Gavin Newsom warned in the Bay Area that electing Larry Elder would have deadly consequences for Californians amid the still-raging COVID-19 pandemic.
● New poll finds Newsom could easily beat recall thanks to motivated Democrats Los Angeles Times
● Gavin Newsom and the Golden State’s Recall Fever New Yorker
● President Joe Biden to visit Sacramento amid California wildfires, Gavin Newsom recall Sacramento Bee
● Biden to campaign with Newsom on Monday in Long Beach Los Angeles Times
● Biden to campaign against recall, tour California fire damage Mercury News
● Biden to campaign Monday with Newsom as recall nears end Business Journal
● Biden to campaign for Newsom in California on Monday. New York Times
● Kamala Harris comes to Newsom’s rescue, whether he needs it or not CalMatters
● Column: About that fantastical rhetoric from Gavin Newsom and Kamala Harris Los Angeles Times
● California recall vote offers test of Biden political clout Business Journal
● The California Recall Could Be a Road Map for Democrats The Atlantic
● Amid Recall, Less than Half View Either Party Favorably Public Policy Institute of California
● A GOP governor would radically upend California. Here are 12 key issues at stake Los Angeles Times
● Opinion: The best fix to one-party rule isn’t recalls. It’s two strong parties. AEI
Larry Elder talks to farmers in Fresno about California water issues. What’s his solution?
Fresno Bee
Republican recall candidate Larry Elder met with a group of farmers Thursday in Fresno to talk about water, jobs, crime and other issues during a stop on his push to unseat Gov. Gavin Newsom.
See also:
● How Did Larry Elder Become a Front-Runner in California’s Governor Race? New York Times
● Review: Larry Elder complained we’d never reviewed his books. So we did, like it or not Los Angeles Times
● LAPD is investigating altercation involving Larry Elder at Venice homeless encampment Los Angeles Times
● Larry Elder calls himself ‘Sage From South Central.’ But his ties to Black L.A. are fraught Los Angeles Times
● Opinion: ‘If Elder Were a Democrat’ Wall Street Journal
Larry Elder prepares for California recall loss with lawyers, voter fraud website
Sacramento Bee
With less than a week to go until the California recall election, some Republicans are falsely claiming that votes are rigged in favor of Democrats and suggesting, without evidence, that Gov. Gavin Newsom can only win with fraudulent votes.
See also:
● Fact check: Donald Trump falsely claims recall election is ‘rigged’ for NewsomSacramento Bee
● Voter fraud claims create 'circus-like atmosphere' for recall of Gov. Gavin Newsom Visalia Times Delta
● Why no one wants to talk about this hot-button election tool in the California recall Los Angeles Times
● In red California, Trump’s lies about a rigged election echo among recall supporters Los Angeles Times
● Republicans stir up voting fraud fears Politico
● Trump is already claiming the California recall is rigged Politico
Newsom’s call now: California Legislature passes these top 2021 bills
CalMatters
The second year of the coronavirus pandemic in California was shaped by two political undercurrents at the state Capitol: a budget awash with cash, thanks to a booming stock market and federal aid, and a looming recall election.
See also:
● Ethnic studies, police reform? Newsom to decide CalMatters
● Quarantining students could get more instruction with proposed independent study changes CalMatters
● Bill to decertify police for serious misconduct clears Legislature CalMatters
● California cops with troubled records could lose their badges under bill sent to Newsom Sacramento Bee
● California pushes rules on breath-restricting police holds AP
● California moves to ban sale of gas-powered lawn mowers and leaf blowers
● Sacramento Bee
● California lawmaker pulls bail reform bill in wake of Land Park slaying Sacramento Bee
● California Aims to Ban Recycling Symbols on Things That Aren’t Recyclable New York Times
● California may require menstrual products in public schools AP
● California moves to outlaw ‘stealthing,’ or removing condom AP
● Editorial: Pass AB 1506, preserve future of California newspapers Mercury News
California could restrict protests outside vaccination sites
San Francisco Chronicle
While hundreds protested at the state Capitol against coronavirus vaccine mandates, lawmakers voted Wednesday to make it a crime to obstruct vaccination sites.
See also:
● New vaccine mandates falter in California Legislature as protesters gather in Sacramento Los Angeles Times
● California lawmakers shelve vaccine bills -- for now AP
California takes on Amazon, advancing a bill that regulates tough warehouse work metrics
Los Angeles Times
The California Senate voted to regulate warehouse performance metrics, approving the first legislation in the nation that will require companies such as Amazon to disclose productivity quotas at their logistics facilities, among other standards meant to make warehouse work safer.
See also:
● California Bill Passes, Giving Amazon Warehouse Workers Power To Fight Speed Quotas VPR
● California Senate Passes Bill Reining In Amazon Labor Model New York Times
Walters: California’s ‘corridor of corruption’ yields new case
CalMatters
Southern California’s “corridor of corruption” has yielded a new case of insider dealing – not the first and not the last.
Out of time: California legislators won’t extend eviction ban
CalMatters
The California eviction moratorium is scheduled to end after Sept. 30, but legislators aren’t planning to extend the protections for renters.
What did California lose in the war on terror? More than any other state in the U.S.
Los Angeles Times
No state has lost as many as California; 776 men and women who called the Golden State home died, 11% of the nation’s casualties. Nearly 20% of California’s war dead were old enough to die for their country but too young to buy a drink. They left behind 453 children.
Texas? Idaho? Where Californians Are Moving.
New York Times
If there’s one thing the candidates vying to replace Gov. Gavin Newsom can agree on, it’s that too many Californians are fleeing the state.
Federal:
COVID Update:
● Path out of the Pandemic: President Biden’s COVID-19 Action Plan The White House
● Biden Boosts Vaccine Requirements for Large Employers, Federal Workers to Combat Covid-19 Wall Street Journal
● Why did CDC change its definition for ‘vaccine’? Agency explains move as skeptics lurk Fresno Bee
● COVID-19 surge in the US: The summer of hope ends in gloom Fresno Bee
● COVID cases for children soar to highest number since pandemic began, officials say Fresno Bee
● COVID-19 vaccinations lagging despite FDA’s full approval of Pfizer shots Los Angeles Times
● As a Delta Wave Peaks in Some States, Others Brace for What’s Next Wall Street Journal
● When Was the First U.S. Covid Death? C.D.C. Investigates 4 Early Cases New York Times
● Two-thirds of small business owners support mask mandates The Hill
● Average COVID hospitalization costs 150 times more than vaccination The Mercury News
Biden’s COVID vaccine mandate ‘raises more questions than it answers.’ What to know
Modesto Bee
Workers at companies with more than 100 employees will be required to get a COVID-19 vaccine or submit to weekly testing under a new rule President Joe Biden unveiled Thursday — but is it feasible?
See also:
● Biden goes further than Newsom in vaccine mandate for public employees: No exception for tests Sacramento Bee
● AP source: Biden requiring federal workers to get COVID shot Fresno Bee
● Biden Will Require Vaccines For Federal Workers As Part Of A New COVID Strategy VPR
● ‘Our patience is wearing thin’: Biden extends vaccine mandates as COVID toll rises Los Angeles Times
● Biden to Require All Federal Workers, Government Contractors Be Vaccinated Against Covid-19 Wall Street Journal
● Biden Boosts Vaccine Requirements for Large Employers, Federal Workers to Combat Covid-19 Wall Street Journal
● Biden announces sweeping new vaccine mandates for businesses, federal workers Washington Post
● Millions of workers, businesses to face Biden’s new coronavirus vaccine and testing rules Washington Post
● Biden’s New Vaccine Requirements Draw Praise, Condemnation and Caution New York Times
● What legal ground do Republican governors have to push back on vaccine mandates? Washington Post
Biden Administration Sues Texas Over Its Abortion Law
Wall Street Journal
The Justice Department sued Texas Thursday to block a new state law banning most abortions, saying it was enacted “in open defiance of the Constitution.”
See also:
● Editorial: Merrick Garland’s Texas Two-Step Wall Street Journal
● Justice Department sues Texas to block six-week abortion ban Washington Post
● Justice Breyer calls Supreme Court decision on Texas abortion law ‘very, very, very wrong’ Washington Post
● Progressives Want Justice Stephen Breyer To Retire. His Response? Not Yet NPR
● Texas Gov. Greg Abbott is wrong about pregnancy, abortion timeline Politico
● Column: Barbara Boxer on abortion, being mugged and Dianne Feinstein Los Angeles Times
Democrats Advance Plan to Require Employers to Offer Retirement Plans
Wall Street Journal
Democrats have included a provision in their $3.5 trillion healthcare, education and climate bill that would require companies without retirement plans to automatically enroll workers in individual retirement accounts.
Editorial: Transforming America in 17 Days
Wall Street Journal
Democratic leaders are moving to ram into law their $3.5 trillion plan for cradle-to-grave entitlements with the narrowest of majorities before Americans figure out what they’re doing.
Washington Post
Biden’s allies in Congress hope to continue securing agreements as they confront more vexing issues like taxes, health care, and climate change.
Washington Post
House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) is asking the Supreme Court to review and overturn the House’s proxy voting rules, which were adopted last year to allow lawmakers to cast votes remotely as a pandemic precaution.
Senate Democrats Close To Agreement On Voting Rights Compromise
Huffington Post
Senate Democrats are nearing an agreement on a compromise version of their sweeping voting rights bill, the For The People Act, to be able to secure the support of Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), the lone Democrat to oppose the original bill.
Andrew Yang to launch a third party
Politico
Former presidential and New York mayoral candidate Andrew Yang is set to launch a third party next month, according to two people familiar with the matter.
The Changing Climate on Capitol Hill
U.S. News
More Americans are paying attention as the climate crisis is coming into sharper focus amid a chaotic summer of disasters that pummeled every inch of the country.
Other:
It’s been 20 years since the 9/11 attacks but we’re still haunted by that day — every day
Fresno Bee
Sept. 11 has become more than a national trauma long past. America has lived Sept. 11 every day for 20 years since 2001, even as we watched the last American soldier and their fallen comrades depart Afghanistan last week.
See also:
● Young Sikhs still struggle with post-Sept. 11 discrimination Modesto Bee
● Garth Stapley on 9/11: Through a Modesto lens, remembering that fateful day 20 years ago Modesto Bee
● Organizations around Bakersfield to remember 9/11 Bakersfield Californian
● Muslim youth in America: A generation shadowed by the aftermath of 9/11 Los Angeles Times
● Twenty years later, I wonder how a terrible Tuesday in September changed me Los Angeles Times
● More Americans say 9/11 changed U.S. for the worse, Post-ABC poll finds Washington Post
● What It Meant To Be Muslim In America After 9/11 NPR
● Post-9/11 bipartisanship ‘hard to imagine’ Roll Call
● Condoleezza Rice: We Are More Secure Than We Were on 9/11 Wall Street Journal
MADDY INSTITUTE PUBLIC POLICY PROGRAMMING
Sunday, September 12, at 10 a.m on ABC30 – Maddy Report: "LAO Report on Safe Drinking Water" - Guest: Rachel Ehlers, Principal Fiscal and Policy Analyst - Legislative Analyst's Office. Host: Maddy Institute Executive Director, Mark Keppler.
Sunday, September 12, at 10 a.m. on Newstalk 580AM/105.9FM (KMJ) – Maddy Report - Valley Views Edition: “"Valley Water: Where & Why is it Unsafe to Drink?"- Guests: Ellen Hanak, Director - PPIC Water Center; Sarge Green, Research Scientist - Fresno State's CA Water Institute. Host: Maddy Institute Executive Director, Mark Keppler.
AGRICULTURE/FOOD
Sierra Club sues Visalia over change in ag mitigation policy
The Business Journal
Less than a month after the Visalia City Council threw out their adopted Ag Mitigation Program (AMP) the Sierra Club has sued Visalia over the change.
No, the U.S. government isn’t telling farmers to destroy their crops
Politifact
A spokesperson for the U.S. Department of Agriculture said farmers are not being asked to destroy their crops.
Commentary: State’s plan to cut greenhouse gas emissions harmful to farmers
CalMatters
Unfortunately, California’s administration and legislative leadership’s approach to setting mandates to cut greenhouse gas emissions has left agriculture to become collateral damage rather than a meaningful partner in meeting them.
California court ruling could lead to lower limits on use of agricultural pesticide
San Francisco Chronicle
A state appeals court says regulators failed to consult with state health officials or anyone else other than the manufacturer, Dow AgroSciences, before setting and then loosening limits on a widely used pesticide and soil fumigant known as 1,3-D that can cause cancer.
Opinion: Biden’s Tax Changes Won’t Hurt Family Farmers
Wall Street Journal
Changes to the step-up in basis are needed to ensure that wealthy investors pay their fair share.
CRIMINAL JUSTICE/FIRE/PUBLIC SAFETY
Crime:
Stimulus check scams soared this summer, IRS warns. Here’s what to watch out for
Fresno Bee
The IRS said it received a record number of reports about COVID-19 stimulus check-related scams in June and July.
California voters rejected ‘zero bail.’ Now lawmakers weigh new overhaul of system
Los Angeles Times
Ten months after California voters rejected a state law to eliminate cash bail for many offenses, a new fight is brewing in the Legislature over an alternative plan by lawmakers that would slash the amount arrestees must pay to get out of jail.
Public Safety:
Toxic algae test results are in after mysterious deaths of California family while hiking
Fresno Bee
Few clues have been shared by investigators working to determine how a family and their dog died a little over three weeks ago while hiking in Sierra National Forest, in a remote section of Mariposa County southwest of Yosemite National Park.
See also:
● State issues danger advisory due to algal bloom at San Luis Reservoir in Merced County Fresno Bee
California pushes rules on breath-restricting police holds
AP
California would bar police from using certain face-down holds that have led to multiple unintended deaths under a measure headed to Gov. Gavin Newsom on Thursday.
See also:
● Bill to decertify police for serious misconduct clears Legislature CalMatters
● California cops with troubled records could lose their badges under bill sent to Newsom Sacramento Bee
Fire:
Increased containment of French Fire prompts re-opening of last closed road
Bakersfield Californian
The French Fire, burning west of Lake Isabella, has burned 26,745 acres and is 87 percent contained, according to the Great Basin Incident Management Team on Thursday. The number of burned acres has not grown since Tuesday, but containment has increased.
Wildfire smoke is everywhere now. Here are the best apps to check air quality in your area.
Washington Post
Even if you’re nowhere near a wildfire, you may still be feeling their effects. The good news is there are a few simple ways to get a pretty good picture of the air quality in a given area.
Managing Family Forests Is Key to Managing Wildfire
Public Policy Institute of California
In the Sierra-Cascade region, many mixed-conifer forests belong to small family operations, which typically struggle to carry out robust forest management. This gap in management is putting communities at risk; a few policy changes could help.
‘Moneyball’ Analytics Help Fight Wildfires. This Year’s Blazes Are Testing Their Limits.
Wall Street Journal
Firefighters in Western forests have gained a critical new weapon in recent years: sophisticated computer programs grounded in sports analytics that model how blazes spread.
After a disastrous summer of fire, California braces for a potentially worse fall
Los Angeles Times
With more than 2 million acres burned so far this year, California’s already destructive wildfire season may worsen this fall, with long-term forecasts showing little signs of relief.
Dixie fire charges north, forcing new evacuations as crews face ‘very concerning’ weather
Los Angeles Times
The monstrous Dixie fire, now burning for nearly two months, surged north on Wednesday, forcing residents to flee as the possibility of dry lightning and fierce winds threaten to intensify the blaze.
ECONOMY/JOBS
Economy:
COVID economy: California unemployment claims jump, improvement halts
Mercury News
California workers filed more unemployment claims last week than they did the week before, a setback that raises uncertainty about the strength of the statewide economic recovery.
The U.S. Expected an Economic Takeoff. It Got a September Slowdown.
Wall Street Journal
Businesses and consumers are reworking plans to adjust to renewed mask mandates, travel restrictions, event cancellations and delayed office reopenings. Consumers are pulling back on purchases and employers have slowed hiring.
See also:
● U.S. Economic Growth Slowed Over the Summer Due to Delta Variant, Fed’s Beige Book Says Wall Street Journal
Fed Officials Prepare for November Reduction in Bond Buying
Wall Street Journal
Reserve officials will seek to forge agreement at their coming meeting to begin scaling back their easy money policies in November. Under the plans taking shape, officials could reduce purchases at a pace that allows them to conclude asset buying by the middle of next year.
Jobs:
State and Local Policies and Sectoral Labor Standards: from Individual Rights to Collective Power
Institute for Research on Labor and Employment
The United States enterprise-based collective bargaining regime creates substantial
limitations for organizing workers where supply chains are increasingly disaggregated in
ways that reduce worker power.
See also:
● California’s Labor Market in the Time of COVID-19: 2021 Chartbook UC Berkeley Labor Center
● COVID jobs recovery: California rebound is among nation’s worst Mercury News
Legislators call on Gov. Newsom to end COVID unemployment benefits
Business Journal
Members of Fresno’s legislative delegation are calling on Gov. Newsom to support back-to-work incentives to help boost California small businesses and end pandemic-era unemployment benefits.
Amazon Dangles Free Bachelor’s Degrees as New Perk in Fight for U.S. Workers
Wall Street Journal
Amazon said Thursday that it will cover the cost of tuition and books for staff pursuing bachelor’s degrees at various universities nationwide. Hourly employees will be eligible for the new perk after 90 days on the job. It didn’t identify the schools.
New York Times
As drought, record heat and wildfire smoke seize the Pacific Northwest, farm owners and fieldworkers struggle to adapt. Sometimes the response feels improvised or inadequate.
EDUCATION
K-12:
Visalia Unified superintendent search underway, community input wanted
Visalia Times Delta
The search for Visalia Unified’s next superintendent is officially underway, and the district wants input from community members. VUSD wants to know: What are the top qualities you want to see in the next Visalia Unified superintendent?
Video: ‘Back in School & COVID: What Fresno parents need to know’
Fresno Bee
Students and educators are in their third school year living with COVID-19. For the first time in a year and a half, most children are back to regular in-person learning, five days a week. Although students are back in school, things aren’t as they used to be.
School districts unveil dashboards with information about positive COVID cases
Bakersfield Californian
Kern County school districts have begun to unveil public dashboards on their websites that include information about positive COVID cases within their own school communities.
KHSD board: Extensive new boundaries are key for a growing district
Bakersfield Californian
The opening of Del Oro High School in fall 2022 prompted the board of the Kern High School District to approve some of the biggest changes to individual school boundaries in its history.
See also:
● Kern High School District approves redistricting for new high school Bakersfield Californian
Other school districts in no rush to follow Los Angeles Unified vaccine mandate
CalMatters
While Los Angeles Unified became the first major district in the nation to issue a vaccine mandate for all eligible students, other school districts are in a holding pattern.
See also:
● L.A. school officials order sweeping student vaccine mandate, a first by a major district Los Angeles Times
Parents Of Children With Disabilities Join The Legal Battle Over Masks In Schools
VPR
In a wave of lawsuits in nearly half a dozen states, families of students with disabilities are joining the legal battle over masks in schools. Complaints argue that restrictions on mask mandates infringe on disability rights and that children with disabilities are being forced to choose between their health and their education.
Quarantining students could get more instruction with proposed independent study changes
CalMatters
The state legislature proposed changes to the independent study laws that had been disrupting school reopenings across California. Educators say the revisions will help but don’t go far enough.
How To Talk About 9/11 With A New Generation Of Kids
NPR
Teaching K-12 students about the attacks of 9/11 has always been difficult. But with the 20th anniversary of the attacks this weekend, time has brought a new challenge: Students today have no memories of that day.
Opinion: What do parents look for when choosing a school?
American Enterprise Institute
It’s a topic that engenders plenty of discussion in district offices, teacher lounges, private schools, and real estate agencies: What do parents look for when choosing a school? It’s also a question with lots of practical implications for education.
Higher Ed:
The Maddy Institute
Maddy Associates Luncheon Speaker Series: September 13, Robert Maxim, Senior Research Associate in the Brookings Metropolitan Policy Program, will discuss how regional public universities can have a large role in economic growth in economically distressed areas.
Amazon Dangles Free Bachelor’s Degrees as New Perk in Fight for U.S. Workers
Wall Street Journal
Amazon said Thursday that it will cover the cost of tuition and books for staff pursuing bachelor’s degrees at various universities nationwide. Hourly employees will be eligible for the new perk after 90 days on the job. It didn’t identify the schools.
How college students can minimize covid risk on campus
Washington Post
As their universities grapple with mask recommendations, vaccine mandates and distancing rules, students are charged with making serious health-related decisions.
A Generation of American Men Give Up on College: ‘I Just Feel Lost’
Wall Street Journal
Men are abandoning higher education in such numbers that they now trail female college students by record levels. At the close of the 2020-21 academic year, women made up 59.5% of college students, an all-time high, and men 40.5%.
Opinion: What Higher Ed Can Learn From Hospitals
Wall Street Journal
America’s universities are also wounded financially, and some may have to defer or eliminate classes in the fall—a potential death knell for the weakest. University presidents must learn from their healthcare counterparts and adapt before it’s too late.
Video: Improving Career Education Pathways into California’s Workforce
Public Policy Institute of California
At a recent event, PPIC research fellow Shannon McConville presented findings from a new report that examines the trajectories of over 1 million career education students and shares insights from stakeholder interviews on creating effective training programs.
ENVIRONMENT/ENERGY
Environment:
California Recall Vote Could Weaken the State’s Aggressive Climate Policies
New York Times
California has long cast itself as a leader in the fight against global warming, with more solar panels and electric cars than anywhere else in the nation. But the state’s ambitious climate policies now face their biggest reckoning to date.
See also:
● Our last, best chance on climate Brookings
Burned trees and billions in cash: How a California climate program lets companies keep polluting
Los Angeles Times
Polluters use the program to outsource their obligations to fight global warming: The credits purchased from faraway forests allow them to claim greenhouse gases they release at their facilities are not hurting the planet.
California records its hottest summer ever as climate change roils cities
Los Angeles Times
California and several other Western states endured the hottest summer on record, according to federal data released Thursday, underscoring the ways rapid climate change is unleashing unprecedented wildfires, deadly heat waves and drought conditions.
See also:
● This summer was hotter than the Dust Bowl summer, NOAA says. New York Times
California drought driving up greenhouse gas emissions: study
The Hill
Drought in California, coupled with population growth, is accelerating the need for energy-intensive water projects — driving up greenhouse gas emissions and thwarting the pace of statewide decarbonization efforts, a new study has found.
Energy:
Report: Drought conditions to accelerate energy use, emissions
Business Journal
A new report finds that carbon emissions associated with water usage in California are likely to spike in coming years due to changing sources and population growth. Droughts fueled by climate change are expected to increase water-related energy use and carbon emissions.
Opinion: To solve California’s power demands, regulators need to add more clean energy, faster
Fresno Bee
The consequences of climate change have stacked the deck against California’s electricity grid this summer. Crippling drought has decimated hydroelectric power supplies our state has historically relied on just as blistering heat has sent demand for electricity skyrocketing.
California Independent Petroleum Association files for bankruptcy following anti-SLAPP judgment
Sacramento Business Journal
The California Independent Petroleum Association filed for bankruptcy after an appeals court determined it must pay nearly $2.3 million in attorneys' fees for challenging a settlement related to new permitting processes for oil and gas producers in Los Angeles neighborhoods.
Biden wants the sun to provide nearly half the nation’s electricity by 2050
Washington Post
The Biden administration announced a plan Wednesday to use solar energy to produce nearly half the nation’s electricity by mid-century, part of its ambitious bid to address climate change.
See also:
● Biden administration says solar could power 40% of U.S. electricity by 2035 Los Angeles Times
● Report: US could get 40% of electricity from solar by 2035 Mercury News
Airlines Join White House Effort for Cleaner Jet Fuel
Wall Street Journal
The Biden administration announced a new effort to clean up jet fuel, aiming to cut its greenhouse-gas emissions by one-fifth before the end of the decade. The initiative would spend $4.3 billion on one of the hardest-to-address contributors to climate change.
HEALTH/HUMAN SERVICES
Health:
What is the mu variant of the coronavirus?
Fresno Bee
What is the mu variant? It’s a version of the coronavirus that was first identified in Colombia in January and has since caused isolated outbreaks in South America, Europe and the United States.
See also:
● What is the Mu variant of the coronavirus? Los Angeles Times
● Covid-19 Virus Variants Mu and Lambda Unlikely to Supplant Delta Wall Street Journal
Risk of getting long COVID cut in half with 2nd dose of vaccine, study shows
Fresno Bee
Research shows fully vaccinated people are less likely to get infected with the coronavirus or come down with serious illness compared to those who receive only one dose. Now, a new study found complete vaccination cuts the risk of developing long COVID by nearly half.
See also:
● Can kids get ‘long COVID’ after coronavirus infections? Fresno Bee
● Risk of severe breakthrough cases higher for seniors and people with underlying conditions Mercury News
● People who got Johnson & Johnson’s coronavirus shot feel left behind in push for boosters Washington Post
Judge can’t force hospital to treat COVID patient with ivermectin, Ohio court rules Sacramento Bee
An Ohio judge reversed an order Monday that forced a Cincinnati-area hospital to treat a COVID-19 patient with ivermectin, an anti-parasitic drug federal health officials say should not be taken to treat the virus.
See also:
● What is ivermectin, and how did people get the idea it can treat covid? Washington Post
● A Nobel Prize and a horse dewormer: Explaining the controversy over ivermectin and COVID-19 Politifact
The Flu Is Expected to Make a Comeback This Year, Threatening Hospitals Strained by Delta
Wall Street Journal
The coming flu season is on track to be much worse than the last cycle, according to health experts, who fear an influx of cases could further strain hospitals already overwhelmed by the Delta surge.
See also:
● Vaccine for both COVID and flu? Moderna making all-encompassing booster. What to know Fresno Bee
There’s another health perk to getting a COVID vaccine — and it takes just one dose
Fresno Bee
People who received the first dose of any coronavirus vaccine between December 2020 and March 2021 were less prone to developing mild or severe depression than those who had not been vaccinated.
See also:
● Some Vaccines Last a Lifetime. Here’s Why Covid-19 Shots Don’t. Wall Street Journal
● Op-Ed: Let’s not lose the plot: Vaccines end the emergency American Enterprise Institute
FDA delays decision on e-cigarettes from vaping giant Juul
Business Journal
Federal health officials on Thursday delayed a high-stakes decision on whether to permit bestselling vaping brand Juul to stay on the market, while banning the sale of thousands of other electronic cigarettes.
Human Services:
California prepares to spend billions on Medi-Cal services for homeless people and others
Los Angeles Times
Over the next five years, California is plowing nearly $6 billion in state and federal money into the plan, which will target just a sliver of the 14 million low-income Californians enrolled in Medi-Cal.
Tech Advances put the Annual Doctor Visit on the Critical List
Wall Street Journal
An explosion of advances in digital technology, imaging, gene sequencing and artificial intelligence will likely transform the physical into an even more virtual experience.
Biden Administration Releasing Billions in Covid-19 Relief for Hospitals, Health Groups
Wall Street Journal
This funding includes $8.5 billion from the American Rescue Plan for providers who serve patients in rural areas and are covered by federal programs such as Medicaid and Medicare, according to federal officials.
See also:
● Fact Check: What’s the average cost of a COVID-19 hospital stay? Politifact
Biden Administration Unveils Plan to Cut Prescription-Drug Prices
Wall Street Journal
A Biden administration plan to lower prescription-drug prices offers the first detailed road map of administrative actions the White House would support in addition to legislation aimed at driving down costs.
IMMIGRATION
Federal judge won’t dismiss lawsuit against ICE in California. What happens next?
Fresno Bee
A U.S. District judge last week denied a government’s motion to dismiss a lawsuit against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement over the agency’s use of private security guards to make arrests in California’s prisons.
California can end the double-punishment of immigrants who’ve served their time
CalMatters
California has an opportunity to pass the VISION Act, AB937, to ensure that people who serve their sentences, are ordered released, or who have their charges dropped aren’t transferred to ICE detention and instead can reunite with their families.
Why Afghan Refugees Aren’t Actually Welcome in California
The Atlantic
Last week, the State Department released a list of cities suitable for Afghans who qualify for Special Immigrant Visas. In a telling indictment of California’s housing policies, not one of the 19 cities considered affordable for refugees were in the nation’s most populous state.
How 9/11 stalled immigration reform — and inspired a new generation of activists
Los Angeles Times
The Sept. 11 attacks upended U.S. immigration policy, linking it for the first time to the nation’s anti-terrorism strategy and paving the way for two decades of restrictive laws.
LAND USE/HOUSING
Land Use:
Yosemite plans to end reservation system soon, despite region’s climbing COVID cases
Fresno Bee
Yosemite said the temporary system would only be in place through Sept. 30, “or until local public health conditions improve” due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Housing:
A tale of two cities: Modesto and Manteca’s contrasting approaches to housing development
Modesto Bee
Homeownership is a goal for many couples and families across the Central Valley, but sky-high prices and low inventory levels are pushing the dream further and further away from reality.
Who has received emergency rent assistance in Fresno 6 months into program?
Fresno Bee
Roughly six months into the city of Fresno’s emergency rental assistance program, only about 13% of qualified applicants have received rental assistance that amounts to about $7.8 million.
$2.75 billion for homeless housing now up for grabs in California
Mercury News
California housing officials on Thursday made $2.75 billion available for cities, counties and nonprofits to create new homeless housing — vastly expanding a program that already has provided more than 1,600 residential units in the Bay Area.
Gavin Newsom’s signature homeless program moves to repair old buildings for housing
Sacramento Bee
The Newsom administration is ready to spend $2.75 billion to rehabilitate rundown buildings so they can house homeless Californians. The effort will include refurbishing hotels, motels, vacant apartment buildings, tiny homes and other properties.
With Extreme Weather, Home Insurance Will Cost More. If You Can Get It.
New York Times
Extreme weather is causing billions of dollars in property damage with a greater frequency than even a few years ago. In response, insurance companies are increasingly rethinking which homes to cover and at what price.
PUBLIC FINANCES
California stimulus checks: 2 million more Golden State payments to be issued next week
KTLA 5
California will be distributing another round of Golden State Stimulus II checks to eligible residents next week, the California Franchise Tax Board said Thursday.
America’s shrinking white population needs to value youthful diversity
Brookings
America’s white population could be facing a different kind of fear. This is the specter of living in a slow-growing, fast-aging, and less productive nation, where government support for older generations dwindles due to a shrinking tax base.
TRANSPORTATION
Merced County is seeking community input on public transit needs
Fox 26 News
Merced County Association of Government (MCAG) and the Social Services Transportation Advisory Council (SSTAC) are seeking community input about the future of public transportation in Merced County.
Layoffs and delays threaten California’s high-speed rail as project faces funding hang up
Fresno Bee
Top Democrats withheld billions of dollars in funding Gov. Gavin Newsom sought for the state’s high-speed rail line in the final days of this year’s legislative session, threatening construction delays and layoffs unless they come to a deal in early 2022.
Fresno’s airport just set an all-time passenger record. Here’s why some aren’t happy
Fresno Bee
Travelers through Fresno Yosemite International Airport smashed an all-time record in July, the first time in which more than 100,000 passengers flew aboard departing domestic airline flights in a single month.
WATER
Improving California’s Water Market
PPIC
As California works to bring its groundwater basins into balance under the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act, water banking and trading are important tools to help manage the transition.
California’s vital canals are crumbling. A plan to fix them just died in the Legislature
Sacramento Bee
The major arteries of California’s water-delivery system are crumbling, but a proposal in the state Legislature to spend $785 million fixing them is dead for the year.
“Xtra”
Fresno Bee
Tokyo Garden has been closed during much of the COVID-19 pandemic. Now it’s for sale. What does all this mean for the future of the downtown bar and Japanese restaurant?
Fresno Bee
“We really want to celebrate that we made it through COVID,” he said. “We’re really thankful for all of our patrons, feel overwhelmed by a lot of regulars that keep coming back … and just want to celebrate being open and being able to give back to the customer.”
These national food chains have opened new Stanislaus sites with more planned soon
Modesto Bee
Two chains with cult followings are opening new locations in two Stanislaus County cities, with their sights set on additional Central Valley locations nearby soon.
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