CalMatters

There’s so little data available, it’s impossible to even tell if several of California’s largest homelessness programs are working, according to a statewide audit released Tuesday.

Reporters and the public rely on Cal-Access to track campaign fundraising, as well as how much is being spent by lobbyists.

Gov. Newsom and Democratic leaders in the Legislature announce a deal on early action to shrink the state’s budget shortfall by $17 billion. Votes are expected next week, ahead of action on the 2024-25 budget in May and June.

The U.S. Labor Department investigated a company it says employed underaged workers as deboners then shipped its product. The company’s lawyer denies it.

State lawmakers have returned from spring recess, and the next few months will be when representation really matters. But how well are they doing? A series of CalMatters stories explores that big question.

An L.A. partnership that is supposed to place 200 Black trainees in city jobs is falling short. One worker whose desk job offer was revoked was told to try sanitation.

California’s community colleges are reporting a rise in financial aid fraud. In January, suspected bots represented 1 in 4 college applicants. Schools have given away millions to these scams, and college officials say fraudsters are getting smarter with the help of AI.

Gov. Gavin Newsom pledged to address a rise in jail deaths early in his administration. Since then, fentanyl overdoses and suicides have death rates at historic highs.

HUD wants to see what happens when you give cash directly to renters, instead of traditional vouchers. At least one California housing authority is interested.

The ballot initiative voters approved this week will provide billions of dollars to fund housing and treatment facilities for mentally ill Californians.