GOP: Bills Would Close Realignment 'Loopholes'
State Republican lawmakers have proposed a package of bills addressing what they call "loopholes" in realignment, the massive shift of thousands of felons from state oversight to local control. It's unclear whether Republicans have the political muscle to advance any of the measures, which would return some responsibilities for offenders back to the state.
Report: Kaiser Patients Wait Too Long for Mental Health Care
A state regulator says Oakland-based Kaiser Permanente is failing to provide timely access to mental health treatment. At some clinics, patients are waiting longer than the legal limit of 10 days for appointments. The regulator, California's Department of Managed Health Care, will follow up in six months.
At UC Davis Conference, a Push for 'Climate-Smart Agriculture'
Scientists and policymakers gathered at UC Davis Wednesday to talk about climate change and agriculture. Growers in California have noted disturbing patterns, from heat stress on row crops, to fewer so-called winter "chilling hours," which are crucial for cherries and other stone fruits.