CALMATTERS

• Why Trump’s demand for trucker records sets off CA privacy alarms
  September 3, 2026
  “We told you so.”  That’s what privacy and immigrant advocates are saying about a federal subpoena to a national clearinghouse of DMV records. This summer, they tried to warn Gov. Gavin Newsom that sharing data […]
• As California debated sharing data on drivers, Homeland Security subpoenaed 17 million records
  September 3, 2026
  Privacy advocates raised alarms as California lawmakers voted to share driver license information with a national nonprofit database. Then, the Trump administration sought trucker records from the organization.
• How Silicon Valley used Main Street’s outrage against California privacy law
  September 3, 2026
  Senate Bill 690 promises to stop abusive wiretapping suits against small businesses. Privacy advocates warn it also quietly shields tech giants from major lawsuits.
• California kills bill regulating Flock cameras even as public rage grows
  September 3, 2026
  The California Legislature has failed several times since 2022 to regulate technology for automatically tracking vehicles — even as examples of abuse mount. This year was no exception.
• California schools are sitting on arts money. A change in law might get them to spend it
  September 3, 2026
  The proposed changes aim to allay schools’ apprehension about spending their arts money granted through an initiative voters passed in 2022.
• California’s top Democrats struggle but can’t resolve the question of wildfire liability
  September 3, 2026
  Gavin Newsom's late-session deal failed in the Legislature. It would have lessened liability for utilities whose equipment causes wildfires. A state Senate compromise never got a vote.
• Clock is ticking as LA Olympics organizers plan massive spending spree to retool venues
  September 3, 2026
  LA28 officials are stockpiling money and preparing to spend it fast. The organizing committee has effectively built a Fortune 500 company in Downtown L.A.