People with developmental disabilities are among the most vulnerable in our society. The state budget must prioritize increased and sustained funding for these individuals, regardless of a budget deficit, to ensure these individuals and families have the opportunity to progress.
OPINION: Without dedicated operations funding, some of the state’s largest transit agencies will have to reduce service, lay off staff, and defer maintenance and modernization programs.
OPINION: The domestic maritime industry must continue to play a leading role in helping California and the U.S. reach net-zero emissions. American companies and government partners are already making strides to reach this goal by advancing low and zero emission harbor vessels and efficient port infrastructure. Together, we can do more to clean our air without risking our economy or energy supply.
OPINION: Education in California is experiencing a once-in-a-generation transformation, as tens of thousands of parents make crucial decisions about how and where their children learn.
511327024OPINION:Some California hospitals and pharmacies are exploiting a federal assistance program that was created to help vulnerable communities access low-cost treatments. Instead, these healthcare systems and chain pharmacies continue charging some underserved patients high costs for their medicines while pocketing the discounts to boost their own bottom lines.
Amid an arid landscape, an aqueduct carries water to Los Angeles. Photo: iofoto, via Shutterstock)OPINION: The California storms that kicked off 2023, bringing flooding and record high snowpack, might seem enough to end a prolonged dry spell. But if history is our guide, we know that wet winters doesn’t always end a mega-drought.
A patient takes medication to deal with a chronic illness. (Photo: fizkes, via Shutterstock)OPINION: Managing autoimmune arthritis that causes painful, swollen joints and daily fatigue is almost like having a full-time job. The medication I need to prevent further joint damage also suppresses my immune system, which means running through PTO (paid time off) for sick days instead of fun days. Regardless, biologic medications allow me to function and keep my hands from swelling like balloons. Living with chronic illness is taxing enough without having to decode insurance hurdles to receive these life-altering medications.
People protesting the high cost of gasoline at a Los Angeles site during June 2022. (Photo: Ringo Chiu, via Shutterstock)OPINION: In the past six months, the volatility of fuel prices has been a major concern for Californians as well as a contentious issue between politicians and oil refiners. Even with gas prices decreasing upwards of $0.70 a gallon, the average price per gallon now is significantly more than it was this time last year.
Sunrise at Yosemite National Park. (Photo: Stephen Moehle, via Shutterstock)OPINION: From my home in Ventura County, I can see the rugged hills and green oak trees of the Los Padres National Forest. I grew up in this area and have spent countless days exploring my wild backyard. As a kid, these lands were a constant in my life and I thought they would always remain unchanged. But as an adult, I know these places are threatened by development and climate change.
A view of downtown Los Angeles seen from the Hollywood hills. (Photo: logoboom, via Shutterstock)OPINION: Perhaps the greatest financial risk faced by Californians today has nothing to do with rising interest rates or a looming recession. Rather, it is the loss of access to products they rely upon to protect their most valuable assets: auto, homeowners and commercial insurance.