Labor unions in California are preparing to pitch a fight for their political lives. In November, Californians will decide whether to require unions to ask for written permission from each member to use their dues for political purposes. Political scientists say the measure has the potential to severely damage the political clout of big labor...
Frustrated by cuts to the judiciary system, some Bay Area courts are pushing for legislation that would transfer control of the system's $3 billion budget from a central bureaucracy to lawmakers and local trial judges. The California Assembly votes today on the measure...
In a case of history repeating itself, Caltrans worker Duane Wiles was fired, then rehired, then fired again for issues relating to “incompetence, insubordination, and dishonesty,” and most recently, falsifying data in tests of the safety and integrity of freeway structures. This time, however, the settlement agreement with Caltrans is allowing Wiles to resign instead of having his issues publicly aired…
A new study shows that getting rid of old diesel trucks has helped cut gas emissions around the Port of Oakland in half. For years, the neighborhoods around the port have been known for extremely high air pollution that can cause health problems. KALW took a look at the effectiveness of these new state air regulations earlier in the month and also found that pollution has decreased near the port…
In last night’s State of the Union speech, President Obama laid out his plan for a better economy. His proposals focus on U.S. manufacturing, energy independence, adapting skills to a changing economy, and tax increases on the very wealthy. The speech, which comes at the start of the election year, is just the beginning of the president’s case for a second term…
