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I’m CalMatters reporter Ryan Sabalow, filling in for Lynn today.
Between natural disasters and the rising cost of living, many of the state’s insurance dilemmas aren’t easy to manage.
Just ask Democratic US Representative John Garamendi. He was twice an insurance commissioner.
He called it “the second hardest job in the state after governor.”
Still, that hasn’t stopped a group of candidates from asking voters this year to burden them with regulating one of the state’s toughest industries at a time when rising premiums are hitting the pockets of Californians who fear it’s getting too expensive to live here.
The next commissioner will have his hands full.
CalMatters reporter Levi Sumagasai breaks down the role of insurance commissioner, how the current commissioner is leaving the agency and what exactly the commissioner’s office does. Did you know it regulates pet insurance?
Read more about the job and what’s at stake here.
Focus on Inland Empire: Every Wednesday CalMatters Inland Empire Reporter Aidan McGloin examines the great stories from this part of California. Read his newsletter and register here to get it.
Other stories you should know
Homeless people will likely suffer because of Trump’s work requirements
People living among California’s huge homeless population often suffer from some serious illnesses and other medical problems. Street drug providers who provide their care fear that President Donald Trump’s work requirements in his budget bill will soon worsen these health problems.
That’s because starting in 2027, Trump’s law would require states to verify that able-bodied adults under 65 without dependent children do 80 hours or more of work each month to qualify for Medicaid.
Learn more about the issue here.
New retirement benefits for CHP and Cal Fire?
Former Gov. Jerry Brown got what appeared to be the final word on California pensions 14 years ago when he signed a law that cut benefits and increased workers’ payments toward retirement.
This year, unions representing California Highway Patrol officers and California firefighters are backing legislation that would add benefits for the first time since then.
One of the measures would open up a deferred retirement plan for CHP officers and Cal Fire fighters. This is a type of savings plan that would result in a lump sum payment at the end of their career. This does not necessarily increase the cost to the state.
The second would allow new pension formulas for public safety employees, allowing them to retire earlier.
Both measures were passed by the Assembly in January.
See more here.
Finally: students get jobs
A popular state program offers students jobs that fit around their academic schedules and an opportunity to make a difference in their communities. Learn more about State College here.
California voices
CalMatters columnist Dan Walters: Can the reforms that created California’s first-two primary system survive the Democrats’ chance there is no gubernatorial candidate in the general election?
CalMatters contributor Jim Newton: Voters of Los Angeles they deserve the chance to decide whether the city should have a larger council whose members serve significantly smaller areas.
Other things worth your time:
His animal rescue owed millions to a former worker. Instead of paying, the feds say he came up with a plan to kidnap her // Los Angeles Times
What are the free speech rights of federal workers? Yosemite ranger sues after firing // The Fresno Bee
The deal between Paramount and Warner promises to shake up streaming // New York Times
Apartments approved for Anaheim Hillswhere residents said they fear forest fires // Southern California News Group
Cuts at the Alameda Health System are on hold while the county explores options // KQED
Winter rains transform Death Valley National Park in fields of golden color // The Riverside Press Enterprise
State lawmakers launch children’s caucus // The Sacramento Observer
LA County pays $4.9 million to settle lawsuits arising from motor vehicle accidents in the Sheriff’s Department // LAist
Mount Shasta fire captain arrested on felony charges // KRCRTV.
