Alejandra Reyes-velarde

The 1.5% surcharge, capped at $15, expands a recycling program that’s been quietly collecting old computer monitors and TVs for two decades. The change is a result of Senate Bill 1215, its author being former state Sen. Josh Newman, a Democrat who repre... See more

In summary Consumers will have to pay a 1.5% fee on all products with an embedded battery as the result of a new law aiming to curb risk of battery fires. Starting January 1, Californians will pay a new fee every time they buy a product with a non-removab... See more

This story was originally published by CalMatters. Sign up for their newsletters. ### Starting January 1, Californians will pay a new fee every time they buy a product with a non-removable battery – whether it’s a power tool, a PlayStation, or even a sing... See more

In summary In 2025, devastating California wildfires in LA became the state’s most destructive. Climate goals faced federal opposition as Trump blocked clean-car mandates. Refineries closed, water conflicts intensified, and legislators passed compromises.... See more

### This story was originally published by CalMatters. Sign up for their newsletters. ### Days after 2025 began, two fires scorched through Los Angeles neighborhoods, the most destructive in California’s history. The Eaton and Pacific Palisades fires also... See more