Push to pass a labor-sponsored bill is a key ‘Fight for $15’ priority and a potential organizing foothold in an industry where unionization has long been elusive.

A $300 penalty that California courts tack onto traffic and minor citations can cause the cost of a ticket to balloon. Gov. Gavin Newsom wants to reduce it by half but lawmakers want it gone.

California is trying to make its cash assistance program more flexible for low-income parents. Advocates say a federal rule is hindering that.

Anti-poverty organizations are calling for the state to target some of its projected surplus to families making up to $30,000 a year. 

The Campbell Democrat and former Santa Clara County supervisor wants to send no-strings-attached checks to 15,000 homeless high school seniors in California.