California lawmakers returned to Sacramento for the legislative session with a focus on addressing the state’s high cost of living. Following voter concerns about affordability, Democrats in the state are prioritizing measures to make California more affordable. A special session of the Legislature has been called by Gov. Gavin Newsom to budget for legal battles with the incoming Trump administration, alongside the regular session that began on Dec. 2.
Legislators will address housing, electricity bills, home insurance, and grocery costs. Republicans, though lacking the votes to halt Democratic plans, are pushing for efforts to reverse gas price increases and cut taxes. Democrats are introducing measures to cut healthcare costs, regulate pharmacy benefit managers, and provide legal representation for undocumented immigrants.
Lawmakers also plan to introduce a variety of bills covering topics such as artificial intelligence, education, and constitutional conventions. Assemblyman Marc Berman has introduced a bill to speed up California’s vote count process. Senate President Mike McGuire and Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas are prioritizing affordable housing and services for unhoused people, as well as electricity bills. Sen. Josh Becker plans to advance interim housing solutions and address rising home power bills.
Overall, California Democrats aim to deliver real results on affordability and address the concerns of voters. Both parties are preparing to work together on affordability issues, while continuing to push for their individual solutions in the face of the high cost of living in the state.
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