California town proposes ban on Pride, Black and women’s history celebrations

In a shocking move, Huntington Beach, California, is considering a ban on celebrating Pride, Black History Month, and Women's History Month. This discriminatory proposal would silence important voices and erase vital parts of our history. We cannot let this stand!

These celebrations are not just about parades and parties. They're about recognizing the struggles and triumphs of marginalized communities and building a more inclusive future for everyone. Silencing these voices would be a major setback for progress and equality.

Contact your local representatives: Let them know you oppose the ban and urge them to vote against it. Find contact information for your representatives here: https://findyourrep.legislature.ca.gov

#StopTheBan #CelebrateDiversity #EqualityForAll

California Is Planning a Billion-Dollar Unemployment Overhaul

California Is Planning a Billion-Dollar Unemployment Overhaul: California Is Planning a Billion-Dollar Unemployment Overhaul - As California embarks on an unprecedented $1.2 billion overhaul of the employment safety net, what lessons have the EDD and state regulators learned from mass COVID unemployment delays, a historic wave of fraud and years of stop-and-start reforms? This panel discussion will take place on Tuesday, January 23rd, from 12:00pm — 1:00pm at the CalMatters Studio. A networking session with free lunch will take place from 11:30am — 12:00pm for attendees and panelists. - Tuesday, January 23, 2024

DPA Statement on Mayor London Breed’s Proposal To Institute Drug Testing on San Francisco Welfare Recipients

DPA Statement on Mayor London Breed’s Proposal To Institute Drug Testing on San Francisco Welfare Recipients - Drug Policy Alliance: “We understand the Mayor is frustrated by the unhoused crisis. Unlike residents, she’s supposed to work through frustration to arrive at effective solutions.

Welfare programs provide a safety net for individuals and families who are living in poverty. Without this assistance, they may be unable to afford food, housing, clothing, and other essential necessities.

CA Governor Gavin Newsom Signs Bill to End Surprise Ambulance Billing for Californians

Read more:CA Governor Gavin Newsom Signs Bill to End Surprise Ambulance Billing for Californians 

California considers new rules for property insurance pricing

California is considering new rules for property insurance pricing. The state's insurance commissioner, Ricardo Lara, has proposed several reforms, including:

Requiring insurance companies to write more policies in high-risk areas. Currently, insurance companies are allowed to redline certain areas, meaning they can refuse to write policies there. Lara's proposal would require companies to write a certain percentage of their policies in high-risk areas, such as those prone to wildfires.

Creating a statewide insurance pool. This pool would be made up of all insurance companies operating in California. It would be responsible for covering losses in high-risk areas where companies are unwilling to write policies.

Limiting the amount that insurance companies can raise rates. Currently, insurance companies can raise rates by up to 10% per year without approval from the state. Lara's proposal would limit rate increases to 5% per year.

These reforms are aimed at making property insurance more affordable and accessible for Californians. The state has experienced a number of major wildfires in recent years, which have led to billions of dollars in losses. As a result, many insurance companies have been raising rates or refusing to write policies in certain areas.

Lara's proposal has been met with mixed reactions. Insurance companies argue that the reforms will make it more difficult and expensive for them to operate in California. Consumer advocates argue that the reforms are necessary to protect homeowners from rising rates and limited coverage options.

The California legislature is expected to consider Lara's proposal in 2024.

In addition to the reforms proposed by Lara, there are a few other things that can be done to make property insurance more affordable and accessible in California. These include:

Mitigating wildfire risk. This includes things like clearing brush and debris from around homes, creating defensible spaces, and hardening homes against wildfires.

Creating a state-run insurance company. This could provide an alternative to private insurance companies for homeowners in high-risk areas.

Subsidizing insurance costs for low-income homeowners. This would help to make insurance more affordable for those who need it most.

Local Hazard Mitigation Plan

We need the community’s input to update the city’s Local Hazard Mitigation Plan, to help plan for how to keep Angelenos safe in future emergencies or disasters. They want to hear from all Angelenos about your emergency preparedness priorities so that we can determine how best to focus our efforts to protect the city from various hazards. 

Please take a moment to take a short Hazard Mitigation Survey above

Cada octubre, el Departamento de Manejo de Emergencias de la Ciudad de Los Ángeles (LA EMD) alienta a los residentes a participar en el simulacro de terremoto más grande del mundo, por lo que hoy a las 10:19 a.m. lo alentamos a unirse a personas de todo el mundo que participarán en el Great Shakeout al practicando las acciones para salvar vidas de Agáchate, Cúbrete y Sujétate. Lo que hacemos para prepararnos ahora, antes del próximo gran terremoto, determinará qué tan bien podremos sobrevivir y recuperarse. Se pueden encontrar recursos adicionales de seguridad contra terremotos en https://www.readyla.gov/.

Stop Racism in Real Estate Appraisals

Racism in real estate appraisals is a serious issue that has had a significant impact on homeowners of color. A 2018 study by the Brookings Institution found that black and Hispanic homeowners were more likely to have their homes undervalued by appraisers than white homeowners. This undervaluation can have a number of negative consequences, including making it more difficult for homeowners of color to sell their homes, refinance their mortgages, and obtain home equity loans.

There are a number of things that can be done to stop racism in real estate appraisals. One important step is to increase diversity in the appraisal profession. According to the National Association of Realtors, only 5% of appraisers are black and 3% are Hispanic. By increasing the number of appraisers of color, we can help to ensure that appraisals are more fair and accurate.

Another important step is to address the unconscious biases that can lead to racism in appraisals. Appraisers are trained to be objective, but everyone has unconscious biases. These biases can be influenced by a variety of factors, including race, ethnicity, gender, and socioeconomic status. Appraisers can learn to identify and mitigate their unconscious biases through training and education.

Finally, it is important to hold appraisers accountable for their work. If you believe that your home has been undervalued by an appraiser, you can file a complaint with your state's appraisal board. You can also contact the Fair Housing Administration to learn more about your rights.

Here are some additional steps that can be taken to address racism in real estate appraisals:

Require appraisers to complete training on unconscious bias and fair housing laws.

Increase transparency in the appraisal process by making appraisal reports available to homeowners.

Develop algorithms to detect and flag potential bias in appraisals.

Create a fund to help homeowners of color challenge inaccurate appraisals.

Support legislation that would prohibit discrimination in appraisals.

By taking these steps, we can help to ensure that all homeowners have the opportunity to build wealth and equity through homeownership.

Let's Act Now to Stop Racism in Real Estate Appraisals: How can lenders like community development financial institutions, or CDFIs, fight bias in the appraisal industry?

Pentagon to Review Don't Ask Don't Tell Cases for LGBTQ Vets

It is important to remember that LGBTQ+ veterans have served their country just like any other veterans. They deserve to be treated with respect and dignity. Upgrading the discharges of LGBTQ+ veterans is one way to show them the appreciation they deserve.

In 1993, the US military implemented the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy, which prohibited openly gay and lesbian people from serving in the military. This policy was repealed in 2011, but its legacy of discrimination continues to impact LGBTQ+ veterans.

Many LGBTQ+ veterans were discharged from the military under dishonorable conditions simply for being gay or lesbian. These discharges can have a devastating impact on veterans' lives, making it difficult for them to find employment and housing.

In recent years, there has been a growing movement to upgrade the discharges of LGBTQ+ veterans. In 2019, the Department of Defense announced that it would review the discharges of all veterans who were discharged under "Don't Ask, Don't Tell." This review is ongoing, but it is a step in the right direction.

Here are some things that you can do to help LGBTQ+ veterans:

Educate yourself about the challenges that LGBTQ+ veterans face.

Support organizations that are working to help LGBTQ+ veterans.

Speak out against discrimination and harassment of LGBTQ+ veterans.

Thank LGBTQ+ veterans for their service.

Watch Live: State of Black LA

 

Shaping Public Opinion: Aging can be scary

 

As we age, our bodies naturally begin to decline. This can lead to a variety of health problems, such as decreased mobility, vision problems, and hearing loss. These health problems can make it difficult to do the things we enjoy and can also lead to a loss of independence. Aging can also lead to a decline in cognitive function, such as memory and thinking skills. This can make it difficult to learn new things, stay organized, and make decisions. We may need more help with our daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, and cooking. This can be a difficult adjustment to make, and it can also lead to a loss of independence. Not to mention as our friends and family members age and pass away, we may find ourselves feeling lonelier and more isolated. This can be a major challenge, especially if we do not have a strong social network. Aging is ultimately a process that leads to death. This can be a scary thought for many people, especially if they have not come to terms with their own mortality.

It is important to remember that aging is a natural part of life. While there are some challenges associated with aging, there are also many rewards. As we age, we gain wisdom and experience. We also have the opportunity to make a difference in the world and to leave a legacy behind.

If you are afraid of aging, there are things you can do to cope with your fear. Here are a few tips:

Talk to someone you trust about your fears. This could be a friend, family member, therapist, or other trusted individual. Talking about your fears can help you to understand them better and to develop coping mechanisms.

Educate yourself about aging. Learn about the physical and mental changes that occur as we age. This knowledge can help you to feel more prepared for the challenges of aging.

Stay active and healthy. Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep can help to slow down the aging process and to improve your overall health.

The way that aging is portrayed in the media can have a significant impact on public opinion. If aging is only portrayed in negative terms, such as a time of decline and loss, this can lead to negative attitudes towards aging. However, if aging is also portrayed in positive terms, such as a time of wisdom and experience, this can help to create a more positive view of aging.

Texas Law Targets HOA Discrimination of Low-Income Residents

There are many reasons why we still have housing discrimination in the United States. Some of the most common reasons include:

Lack of awareness: Many people are not aware of the laws that prohibit housing discrimination. They may not know that it is illegal to refuse to rent or sell a home to someone because of their race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or disability.

Fear of retaliation: Some people who are discriminated against are afraid to report it because they fear retaliation from the person or organization that discriminated against them. They may worry that they will be denied housing, have their rent raised, or be harassed.

Difficulties in proving discrimination: It can be difficult to prove that housing discrimination has occurred. The victim must be able to show that they were denied housing because of their race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or disability. This can be difficult to do, especially if the discrimination is not overt.

Lack of resources: Many fair housing organizations do not have the resources to investigate and prosecute all cases of housing discrimination. This means that some cases go unreported and unaddressed.

Systemic racism: Housing discrimination is often a result of systemic racism. This means that it is built into the fabric of our society and institutions. It can be difficult to address systemic racism because it is often invisible and unconscious.

Despite these challenges, there are a number of things that can be done to address housing discrimination. There are two main enforcement mechanisms for housing discrimination in the United States: administrative enforcement and judicial enforcement.

Administrative enforcement is carried out by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). HUD can investigate complaints of housing discrimination and take a variety of enforcement actions, including:

Conciliation: HUD will try to resolve the complaint through mediation.

Compliance agreement: HUD can require the respondent to take specific actions to comply with the law.

Administrative law judge hearing: If conciliation is unsuccessful, the case can be heard by an administrative law judge.

Civil action: HUD can file a civil lawsuit against the respondent in federal court.

Judicial enforcement is carried out by the federal courts. Individuals who believe they have been discriminated against in housing can file a lawsuit in federal court. The court can award damages to the victim, order the respondent to take specific actions to comply with the law, and/or issue an injunction prohibiting future discrimination.

In addition to federal enforcement, many states and localities also have their own fair housing laws and enforcement mechanisms.

The following are some of the specific enforcement mechanisms that can be used to address housing discrimination:

Conciliation: This is a process where HUD or a state or local fair housing agency tries to resolve a housing discrimination complaint through mediation. The goal of conciliation is to reach an agreement between the parties that addresses the discrimination and compensates the victim.

Compliance agreement: This is a written agreement between HUD or a state or local fair housing agency and the respondent that outlines the steps the respondent must take to comply with the law. Compliance agreements can include things like paying damages to the victim, changing discriminatory policies or practices, or providing training to employees.

Administrative law judge hearing: This is a hearing that is held before an administrative law judge to determine whether there has been housing discrimination. The hearing is similar to a trial, and both parties have the right to present evidence and witnesses.

Civil lawsuit: This is a lawsuit that is filed in federal court by an individual who has been discriminated against in housing. The lawsuit can be filed by the victim or by HUD. If the court finds that discrimination has occurred, it can award damages to the victim, order the respondent to take specific actions to comply with the law, and/or issue an injunction prohibiting future discrimination.

The choice of enforcement mechanism will depend on the specific facts of the case and the goals of the parties involved. In some cases, conciliation may be the most effective way to resolve the complaint. In other cases, a civil lawsuit may be necessary to obtain a remedy for the victim.

It is important to note that the enforcement of fair housing laws is not always successful. Some cases are settled before they go to court, and some cases are dismissed by the courts. However, the enforcement mechanisms that are available can help to deter housing discrimination and provide a remedy for victims of discrimination.

Good Luck!

Did you know that paid family leave is supported by 84%, of the American people, including 74% of Republicans?

California Paid Family Leave: Paid Family Leave (PFL) provides benefit payments to people who need to take time off work to care for a seriously ill family member, bond with a new child, or participate in a qualifying event because of a family member’s military deployment.

We, the people of the United States, demand that Congress pass a law to give parents paid time off after their babies are born.

The Difference Between PFL and FMLA in California

FMLA is for companies with 50 or more employees within a 75-mile radius. PFL is for companies with one or more employees who are subject to SDI. FMLA: Must have worked for an employer 12 months and 1,250 hours in the last 12-month period.

Know Your Rights: National State of Emergency for LGBTQ+ Americans

Here are some of your rights as an LGBTQ+ person:

• The right to be free from discrimination based on your sexual orientation or gender identity.
• The right to marry the person you love, regardless of their gender.
• The right to adopt children.
• The right to serve in the military.
• The right to access healthcare, including gender-affirming care.
• The right to be free from violence and harassment.
• The right to express your gender identity and sexual orientation without fear of reprisal.

If you believe that your rights have been violated, you can file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). You can also contact a local LGBTQ+ advocacy group for help.

Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:

• The Human Rights Campaign: https://www.hrc.org/
• The National Center for Transgender Equality: https://transequality.org/
• The Sylvia Rivera Law Project: https://srlp.org/
• The National LGBTQ Task Force: https://www.thetaskforce.org/

Remember, you are not alone. There are many people who are fighting for your rights,

and you have the power to make a difference.

Aging is a natural part of life, and it can be a time of great opportunity and growth. By taking care of ourselves and staying connected with others, we can age gracefully and live a long and healthy life.

Define what "aging gracefully" means to you. What does it mean to you to age well? Do you want to stay active and independent? Do you want to maintain your mental sharpness? Do you want to stay connected with your loved ones? Once you know what "aging gracefully" means to you, you can start to develop a plan to achieve your goals.

• Take care of your physical health. This includes eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep. It also includes managing chronic health conditions, if you have any.
• Take care of your mental health. This includes finding ways to manage stress, staying connected with others, and keeping your mind active.
• Stay engaged in life. This could mean volunteering, learning new things, or traveling. It could also mean simply spending time with loved ones and doing things you enjoy.
• Accept the changes that come with aging. This doesn't mean you have to give up on your dreams or goals. But it does mean accepting that your body and mind will change as you get older.
• Be kind to yourself. Aging is a journey, and it's okay to have ups and downs. Be patient with yourself and celebrate your successes.

Aging gracefully is a lifelong process. There is no one-size-fits-all answer, and what works for one person may not work for another. But by taking care of your physical and mental health, staying engaged in life, and accepting the changes that come with aging, you can age gracefully and live a long and happy life.

Here are some additional tips for aging gracefully:

• Get regular checkups with your doctor. This is important for monitoring your health and catching any potential problems early on.
• Take steps to prevent chronic diseases. This includes eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and not smoking.
• Stay positive and optimistic. A positive attitude can help you cope with the challenges of aging and make the most of your life.
• Find your purpose in life. Having a sense of purpose can give you a reason to get up in the morning and keep going.
• Enjoy the journey. Aging is a privilege, so make sure to enjoy it. Appreciate the wisdom and experience you've gained, and savor the moments you have with loved ones.

Why is safeguarding and Advocating for Patient Assistance Programs important?

Patient assistance programs (PAPs) are a critical lifeline for many people who need access to life-saving or life-changing medications but cannot afford them. These programs are offered by pharmaceutical companies, foundations, and other organizations to help patients pay for their medications.

There are several reasons why safeguarding and advocating for PAPs is important. First, PAPs help to ensure that patients have access to the medications they need. This is especially important for people with chronic conditions, who may need to take medication for the rest of their lives. Without PAPs, these people would be unable to afford their medications and could suffer serious health consequences.

Second, PAPs help to improve patient adherence. When patients know that they can get help paying for their medications, they are more likely to stay on their treatment plans. This is important because medication adherence is essential for achieving good health outcomes.

Third, PAPs help to reduce the financial burden on patients and their families. The cost of prescription medications can be a significant financial hardship for many people. PAPs can help to offset these costs, making it easier for patients to afford the medications they need.

There are a number of ways to safeguard and advocate for PAPs. One way is to educate patients about these programs and how to access them. Another way is to support organizations that work to protect PAPs from being discontinued or restricted. Finally, it is important to advocate for policies that make it easier for patients to access PAPs.

Here are some specific actions that you can take to safeguard and advocate for PAPs:

• Learn about PAPs and how they work.
• Talk to your doctor about PAPs and see if you qualify for any programs.
• Contact pharmaceutical companies and foundations that offer
• PAPs and let them know that you support these programs.
• Contact your elected officials and ask them to support policies that protect PAPs.

By taking these actions, you can help to ensure that

PAPs remain available to the people who need them most.

Healthcare Matters Podcast 

Black Americans and the Law

The history of American slavery highlights the role of white people in codifying racism into law. The chattel slavery system was race-based, with laws designed to control enslaved people targeting Black people. The Casual Killing Act of 1699, passed in Virginia, made it legal for masters to kill their slaves at will in the process of inflicting punishment. This law distinguished between the punishment of Black enslaved people and White indentured servants, allowing Black people to be killed casually by enslavers without fear of reprisal. This racist blame-the-victim culture attempts to explain away the brutality experienced by Black people and normalize violence. American policing, which punishes non-compliance with brutality or death, dehumanizes Black people and prevents them from resisting the fight-or-flight response. 

According to Berkeley Law, American jurisprudence and law have profoundly shaped, defined, and constrained the lives of Black people for over 400 years. Racial inequality has extremely deep roots in American society, and our Constitution, statutes, court cases, and regulations not only bear witness to this, but are often the source of it. This timeline provides an overview of […]

What is a target letter? 3 things to know about Donald Trump, ahead of possible charges

A target letter is a formal notification from the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) that a person is the target of a criminal investigation. The letter is typically sent by the United States Attorney's Office or the DOJ and is a formal notification that you are the target of an investigation.

The letter will typically state that the DOJ has "substantial evidence linking [you] to the commission of a crime" and that you may be indicted. The letter will also advise you of your rights, including the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney.

Target letters are not uncommon in white collar crime cases. They are often used as a way to give the target a heads up that they are under investigation and to encourage them to cooperate with the investigation.

If you receive a target letter, it is important to consult with an attorney immediately. An attorney can help you understand your rights and options and can represent you in the investigation and any subsequent criminal proceedings.

Here are some of the reasons why the US Department of Justice might send

you a certified letter:

• To notify you that you are the target of a criminal investigation.
• To invite you to testify before a grand jury.
• To inform you of your rights.
• To request your cooperation with the investigation.

If you receive a certified letter from the DOJ, it is important to open it immediately

and read it carefully.

If you have any questions or concerns, you should consult with an attorney.

Read more

Big Federal Cosmetic Policy Reform Enacted

It is important to note that there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of what are safe cosmetics. Some people may be more sensitive to certain chemicals than others. It is always best to err on the side of caution and choose products that are free of harmful chemicals. Safe cosmetics are those that do not contain harmful chemicals that can potentially cause health problems. These chemicals can be absorbed through the skin or ingested when ingested. Some of the most common harmful chemicals found in cosmetics include: Phthalates: These chemicals are used to make plastics more flexible and are often found in nail polish, hairspray, and lotion. Phthalates have been linked to reproductive problems, cancer, and developmental disorders. Formaldehyde: This chemical is used as a preservative in many cosmetics, including makeup, shampoo, and deodorant. Formaldehyde can cause allergic reactions and has been linked to cancer. Parabens: These chemicals are used as preservatives in many cosmetics, including sunscreen, foundation, and lipstick. Parabens have been linked to breast cancer and other health problems. Retinyl palmitate: This form of vitamin A is used in some cosmetics to treat acne and wrinkles. However, retinyl palmitate can be harmful when exposed to sunlight and has been linked to an increased risk of skin cancer. Devezin Cosmetics and Beauty Within~Teen Esteem campaign for Safe Cosmetics has led the movement for safer beauty for all, educating and engaging millions of consumers and hundreds of Congressmembers and companies to demand stricter FDA regulation of the $100 billion cosmetics industry. Finally, Congress passed the Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act (MoCRA), a sweeping, national law, representing the most significant reform of the cosmetic safety legal framework.

Here are some additional tips for choosing safe cosmetics:

• Read the ingredient list: This is the best way to see if a product contains harmful chemicals.
• Avoid products with fragrance: Fragrance is often a blend of chemicals that can be harmful.
• Choose products that are packaged in glass or metal: These materials are less likely to leach chemicals into the product.
• Avoid products that are made in China: China does not have the same safety regulations as the United States, so there is a greater risk of harmful chemicals in Chinese-made products.

CMS mulls $375M pay cut to home health agencies next year

CMS issued a proposal Friday to cut reimbursements to home health providers by 2.2% next year, or an estimated $375 million less than 2023 levels.

On June 30, 2023, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) proposed a 2.2% cut to Medicare home health payments in 2024. This would amount to a loss of $375 million for home health agencies. The proposed cut is due to a number of factors, including the implementation of the Patient-Driven Groupings Model (PDGM), which is a new payment system for home health services.


The PDGM is designed to better align payments with the cost of providing home health services. However, some home health agencies have argued that the PDGM is not adequately compensating them for the services they provide. They have also said that the proposed cut will make it more difficult for them to provide quality care to Medicare beneficiaries.

The CMS is currently accepting public comments on the proposed cut. The agency will make a final decision on the cut in the fall of 2023.

Here are some of the potential impacts of the proposed cut:

• Home health agencies may have to reduce the number of patients they serve.
• Home health agencies may have to lay off staff.
  
• Home health patients may have to wait longer for services.
• The quality of home health care may decline.
The proposed cut is a cause for concern for many people who rely on home health services. It is important to stay informed about the latest developments and to contact your elected officials if you are concerned about the impact of the cut.

California advances bill to ban toxic ‘forever chemicals’ from cleaners

The US Environmental Protection Agency proposed strict limits on six per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in drinking water. It's the first time the government has moved to regulate PFAS, a class of thousands of chemicals used in everything from dental floss and toilet paper, to common furniture treatments and food packaging. Read more

Post-Affirmative Action

There are many positive affirmative action ideas that can be implemented to help create a more equitable and inclusive society. Some examples include:

• Recruiting and hiring more women and minorities in leadership positions. This can help to ensure that all voices are heard and that decisions are made in the best interests of everyone.
• Providing scholarships and financial assistance to students from underrepresented groups. This can help to level the playing field and make education more accessible to everyone.
• Creating training programs and mentorship opportunities for women and minorities. This can help them to develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the workplace.
• Promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace. This can help to create a more welcoming and supportive environment for all employees.
• Addressing unconscious bias in hiring and promotion decisions.  
• This can help to ensure that everyone is treated fairly, regardless of their race, gender, or other personal characteristics. These are just a few examples of the many positive affirmative action ideas that can be implemented to help create a more equitable and inclusive society. By taking these steps, we can create a world where everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
• Here are some additional ideas:
• • Reducing the impact of standardized testing in college admissions. Standardized tests can be biased against certain groups of people, such as women and minorities. By reducing the emphasis on standardized testing, we can create a more level playing field for everyone.
  • Providing more support for early childhood education. Early childhood education can help to close the achievement gap between children from different socioeconomic backgrounds.
  • Investing in programs that help to reduce poverty and inequality. By addressing the root causes of inequality, we can create a more just and equitable society.

Affirmative action is not a perfect solution, but it is an important tool that can help to create a more equitable society. By implementing positive affirmative action ideas, we can make progress towards a world where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

Read more

Why the Biden-McCarthy debt ceiling deal angers climate activists

Sen. Joe Manchin III (D-W.Va.). has previously demanded White House support for the project in exchange for his vote, and other Republicans, including West Virginia Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, praised the pipeline provisions included in the legislation. Read more - The Washington Post

MSNBC anchor Richard Lui on caregiving for dad with Alzheimer's

When people have a serious illness or a long-term health condition, getting a type of healthcare called palliative care can help improve their daily lives. These types of conditions might not be curable. Or, they may make it difficult for people to live comfortably or take care of daily tasks while they’re having treatment for the condition.

“Palliative” means care that relieves pain and other symptoms without treating the condition that causes them. The main goal of palliative care is to help relieve uncomfortable symptoms you experience because of your illness. It also aims to relieve stress you feel because of your condition. You can get palliative care at any stage of your illness or while living with any serious health condition. MSNBC anchor Richard Lui on caregiving for dad with Alzheimer's: MSNBC's Richard Lui stepped back from his TV job to be a caregiver for his father with Alzheimer's disease. The experience inspired his book, "Enough About Me."

U.S. Debt Ceiling: What that means for Americans if it's not raised

AG Bonta: CA police shooting cases will move faster

• Bonta: “It’s more important to get it right than fast, but the goal is to get it done right and fast…. It took some time to work out the kinks and to get through some of the hiccups, and we’re moving more rapidly now.” Bill Text - AB-1506 Police use of force.  
  
  
  

State and local experience proves school vouchers are a failed policy that must be opposed?

Funding is removed from the public schools and given to the private schools. (It’s typically less than what a state allocated per student.) Vouchers can be a controversial topic in some communities.

Voucher programs have been around since the early 1990s. They’re not available in all states—or even to all students where they are available. The new secretary of education favors these programs, however, so it’s possible more states will start offering them. (Get answers to common questions about the new administration and special education.)

Explaining a failed Policy

Many other sacred cows graze in the pasture of failed policies, and a similar story may be told about each of them. 

But show me a government policy that clashes with the interests of a substantial number of powerful government officials and their resourceful supporters in the private sector, and I’ll show you a policy that can be abandoned overnight. Read more

How is bullying defined? – Bullying is when someone aggressively uses their “power” to target another individual with repeated, unwanted words or actions. Those targeted are hurt either physically or emotionally and have a hard time stopping what is happening to them.

If you suspect your child may be the victim of bullying ask him or her to tell you what's going on. You can help by providing lots of opportunities to talk with you in an open and honest way.

It's also important to respond in a positive and accepting manner. Let your child know it's not his or her fault, and that he or she did the right thing by telling you. If your child is aware of someone who is being bullied, encourage him or her to notify someone and get help.  Other specific suggestions include the following:

• Ask your child what he or she thinks should be done. What's already been tried? What worked and what didn't?
• Seek help from your child's teacher or the school guidance counselor. Most bullying occurs on playgrounds, in lunchrooms, and bathrooms, on school buses or in unsupervised halls. Ask the school administrators to find out about programs other schools and communities have used to help combat bullying, such as peer mediation, conflict resolution, and anger management training, and increased adult supervision.
• Don't encourage your child to fight back. Instead, suggest that he or she try walking away to avoid the bully, or that they seek help from a teacher, coach, or other adult.
• Help your child practice what to say to the bully so he or she will be prepared the next time.
• Help your child practice being assertive. The simple act of insisting that the bully leave him alone may have a surprising effect. Explain to your child that the bully's true goal is to get a response.
• Encourage your child to be with friends when traveling back and forth from school, during shopping trips, or on other outings. Bullies are less likely to pick on a child in a group.

States are trying to weaken child labor protections

 For most of us, the idea of young children working in dangerous jobs with no legal protection belongs to the past, consigned to the pages of history and Dickens novels. 

EPI shines a light into the dark corners of our labor market to expose injustice. Please help EPI spread the word by sharing this chart with your networks and, if you are able, please consider making a gift to support EPI’s important work.

Unrepresentatives Launch with Rachel Maddow

On Monday, Rachel Maddow praised Indivisible activists for doing “some of the most practical, strategically interesting organizing in the country.”

the President’s Fiscal Year 2024 Budget

The Biden-Harris Administration today released the President’s Budget for Fiscal Year 2024. The Budget details a blueprint to grow the economy from the bottom up and middle out, lower costs for families, protect and strengthen Medicare and Social Security, and reduce the deficit by ensuring the wealthy and big corporations pay their fair share—all while ensuring no one making less than $400,000 per year pays more in taxes. 

"Still, the scope of the budget—which includes significant funding for the climate, childcare, democracy, education, healthcare, housing, violence prevention, and more, made possible in part through tax hikes for wealthy individuals and corporations—was celebrated by the likes of Sharon Parrott, president of the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities" (CBPP).

For more information on the President’s FY 2024 Budget, please visit: https://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/budget/.

New Policies Support Communities Most Affected by Chronic Asthma

Asthma is a condition where the airways become constricted or narrow. The inflammation in the area will keep the airways from being open, thus triggering breathing issues. The body will produce mucus that can stick in the airways and will be hard to cough up. 

PHI’s Regional Asthma Management and Prevention (RAMP) program advanced two critical Medi-Cal policies to provide coverage for home-based asthma education, environmental trigger assessments and asthma remediation supports. "Both policy wins have major implications for increased access to home visiting services for people with poorly controlled asthma, which will improve health outcomes, reduce asthma disparities, and decrease healthcare utilization costs," said RAMP director Anne Kelsey-Lamb. Read more here