Public Policy "NEWS"

In a time when micromobility offers an ever-growing network of fast, fun, and environmentally friendly ways to move around towns and cities, it's crucial to recognize the potential it holds. However, alarm bells should ring when successive local and state authorities appear to be shooting themselves in the foot by creating a maze of regulatory fees, taxes and barriers that hinder rather than encourage their adoption. By reviewing these structural fees, we can unlock micro-mobility's tremendous potential, enabling greater urban accessibility, reducing CO2 emissions, and making our cities more equitable and fairer for everyone. What the current system does is not just taxing micromobility twice over, it's also creating an unfair situation. First, every trip pays sales tax to the states, which scooter and e-bike riders then pay. Second, many cities also charge operating fees to micromobility companies, which are again passed on to the consumer through the price of fares.

Every year, on 15 June, we commemorate World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD). It’s another reminder of our older population’s unique vulnerabilities, especially this year, with its theme ‘Spotlight on Older Persons in Emergencies.’ Our parents and grandparents built the world we inhabit and should be revered and nurtured—but they are frequently exploited by scams, abused, and neglected. Why Be Vigilant? It can be a function of our physical or cognitive deterioration as we age, making us more vulnerable to exploitation, less able to detect it, and less likely to overcome it. Isolation, also a common condition of the elderly, can be a contributing factor. Here's what we can do: Stay in Touch: Conduct regular check-ins over the phone, in person, or via email. Listen to the person and pick up the phone if his or her mood or behavior has changed. Educate: Openly discuss scams and fraudulent behavior of all sorts. Ensure they are suspicious of strangers who make unsolicited phone cal

Riverside County's growing immigrant population means it faces both the demands and benefits of migration from social services. Increased Demand for Services: A quarter of Riverside County’s immigrant population likely qualifies for CalWORKs/TANF, overburdening the program’s budget alongside California’s high participation rates. Medi-Cal is one of the chief sources of health coverage for the region's poor, and undocumented immigrants tend to rely heavily on Medi-Cal. This can stretch the program's resources, leaving lines longer than they would be and possibly limiting the availability of some treatments. With the rising cost of living, more families in Riverside County, including those with immigrant family members, may need assistance covering their food expenses through CalFresh (food stamps). This program will be even more stretched, and over-demand likely would make it more difficult for eligible members to receive the full benefit. The increase in migration has

Policymakers, environmentalists, and anybody else interested in preserving California's distinctive freshwater biodiversity will find great value in the PPIC report. We can contribute to ensuring that our rivers, lakes, and streams sustain a diversity of species for future generations by combining these climate-smart techniques. Read more Climate-Smart Tools to Protect California's Freshwater Biodiversity

Criminal justice backlash heads to the California ballot There's debate about the effectiveness of Prop 47. Supporters argue it reduced recidivism rates and helped people reintegrate into society. Opponents argue it led to an increase in property crime. Pros: Lower recidivism: Whether because Prop 47 allowed people convicted of nonviolent property and drug crimes to avoid much of the stigmatization of a felony record – and the barriers to employment and housing that go along with it – or for other reasons, advocates contend that Prop 47 itself reduced recidivism. Potential for enhanced rehabilitation: A significant aspect of Prop 47 is its commitment to redirecting savings into rehabilitation programs. This strategic move could potentially address the root causes of crime, shifting the focus from punitive measures to proactive prevention, a perspective that could have far-reaching positive effects. Also, Prop 47 lowered prison crowding by freeing people who were in prison for

How nutrition, housing, social connection impacts the health of older adults Through my mornings among the elderly, I understood that nutrition, housing, and social networks matter as much or more than other commonly understood health factors when it comes to improving the quality of life for older adults. Solutions for meeting their needs are connected, and neglecting any of them can cause repercussions that encircle everything else. Here’s how: A well-balanced diet with plenty of fruit, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein helps maintain strength and decreases the risk for chronic ailments such as diabetes and heart disease. These factors also help maintain overall cognitive function. Seniors are among the most food insecure. The lack of resources to buy nutritious food can contribute to malnutrition and weaker immune systems, which puts older people at risk for infections. Safe housing not ice-covered or poorly lit and secure housing means are in place to prevent entry by in

Memorial Day is my favorite holiday of the year. Paying homage to those who bravely gave their lives to preserve our liberties makes me contemplate how I express my acts of service. This day reminds us that the dedication of our Armed Forces cultivates the idea that a strong nation isn’t made just by military servicemen and women; it’s made by every citizen who contributes to making it better, no matter the form of service. Service, in all forms, creates a society where all feel supported and validated. A closer look reveals that, among other things, this is my spirit of service. I volunteer with CASA, a network of advocates for children in foster care. They are too vulnerable to voice their wants and needs, and I can be their voice. Secondly, I work with the Red Cross year-round to lend a helping hand to families who serve our great nation. At a broader civic level, I remain committed to the San Jacinto city council and planning commission meetings, which keep me in touch with what’s