New tariffs are here: what effects will California feel?
The latest round of the on-again, off-again tariffs proposed by the Trump administration have been implemented this morning, with multiple major U.S. trading partners being impacted. Many countries which previously had low barriers of trade are now facing a steep financial barrier to do business in the states, including China which now has an effective tariff rate of over 100%. While businesses are expected to absorb some of these new costs, the prices Americans pay for just about everything imported into the country are expected to rise in the near term. As a major economic powerhouses of the country, California — and its trademark industries — are set to be hit hard. Joining Larry to discuss what these new tariffs mean for the country, and California, is Christopher Low, chief economist at FHN Financial and Joe Del Bosque, owner and president of the family-owned Del Bosque Farms in California’s San Joaquin Valley.
How much can California education officials push back against Trump’s DEI orders?
Late last week, the California Department of Education (CDE) sent a letter to all superintendents saying that the state plans to respond to the U.S. Department of Education, which issued an order on K-12 schools to eliminate DEI practices. The letter seemed to call into question the authority of the federal government to take these kinds of actions as well. At stake, should California schools not comply, is the possibility of federal funding cuts. California isn’t the only state under this order – all 50 states have received the same executive order. Only several have refused to comply. Joining us today on AirTalk to discuss the latest updates and the legal aspects of these orders is K-12 education reporter for CalMatters, Carolyn Jones and Thalia González, professor of law at UC San Francisco with an expertise in education law and policy.
New state bill looks to extend the last call for alcohol, could it add to nightlife ahead of major sporting events?
For years, state legislators have shown an interest in extending the sale of alcohol to 4 AM, a policy that has existed in other parts of the country and the world, as a way to help local economies gain more business. A new bill, AB 342, has been introduced by Assemblymember Matt Haney and garnered some interest from local businesses ahead of the 2026 World Cup and 2028 Summer Olympics—both of which will be played in Los Angeles. The bill would allow local governments to dictate whether they want to implement this policy and define the areas that would become their respective "Hospitality Zones.” This follows the Clipper’s stadium, the Intuit Dome, being granted permission to sell alcohol for that extended period after being approved by Governor Gavin Newsom last year. But what’s to come of Assembly Bill 342, and will it make it past the state legislature? Joining us to discuss the basics of the bill, and its likelihood of passing, is Dustin Gardiner, co-author of POLITICO's California Playbook. We also want to hear from bar owners and listeners at-large: Would you support this bill proposal? Do you think it’d help revitalize areas like Downtown LA or create issues for the area? Call us at 866-893.5722 or email us at atcomments@laist.com.
New episode of Imperfect Paradise explores rebuilding Altadena’s Black community
The biggest question hanging over most people in Los Angeles who lost homes in the Palisades and Eaton Fires is whether to rebuild or leave -- a question that’s especially fraught for Altadena’s Black community, who have faced a long history of redlining. Charel Bailey’s parents have lived in Altadena since 1977, and she desperately wants them to rebuild after the fire. Her dad, Al Bailey, has been on the fence. The latest episode of Imperfect Paradise from LAist Studios follows the Baileys as they grapple with rebuilding. Joining us to discuss is Charel and Al Bailey. Also joining us is Marne Campbell, Associate Professor and Chair of African American studies at Loyola Marymount University.
Listen to Imperfect Paradise: Rebuild or leave? One Black family in Altadena decides their future after Eaton Fire
How are LA wildfire survivors deciding whether or not to rebuild?
As debris from the Palisades and Eaton fires continue to be cleared, the next phase of recovery is in sight: rebuilding. But the decision to rebuild is a hard one to make. It may be too expensive or time consuming. The wounds could be too fresh. There is the fear that another disaster will strike. But there is also the desire to return to normalcy and for many that means returning to the home they've always known. Today on AirTalk, we want to hear from survivors about their decisions to rebuild or not. What are some of the challenges for you if you are rebuilding? Why have you decided to move instead? And if you are still contemplating what to do, tell us what your thought process is. Give us a call at 866-893-5722 or email us at atcomments@laist.com.