Here are 10 troubling events in California that slipped under your radar on February 19, 2025.
EPA Submits California EV Plan to Congress: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency forwarded California's plan to phase out gasoline-only vehicles by 2035 to Congress, potentially leading to its repeal. This move aligns with President Trump's campaign promise to revoke EPA waivers granted to California for stricter vehicle emissions.
California Supreme Court Upholds Misgendering Award: The California Supreme Court upheld a $60,000 award to a transgender tenant in Oakland whose landlord repeatedly misgendered them, marking a significant decision in upholding transgender rights.
Christian Basketball Team to Face Trans Athlete: A Christian girls' basketball team is set to compete against a team featuring a transgender athlete in a California high school playoff game, defying President Trump's executive order prohibiting trans athletes in girls' sports.
Ex-NFL Punter Arrested Over MAGA Plaque Protest: Former NFL punter Chris Kluwe was arrested during a city council meeting in Huntington Beach after protesting a plaque in the public library referencing the Make America Great Again (MAGA) movement.
Tech Founder Charged with Price Gouging: Edward Kushins, a Southern California tech founder, was charged with price gouging after allegedly increasing rental prices by 36% during the Los Angeles wildfires, surpassing the legal limit during emergencies.
Judge Reprimanded for Disparaging Domestic Violence Victim: A Northern California judge, Robert Cochran, was reprimanded by the state Commission on Judicial Performance for comments made during a 2023 domestic violence case, reflecting bias and undermining public confidence in the judiciary.
Bar Exam Disarray Leads to Refunds: The State Bar of California offered full refunds to 5,600 applicants scheduled to take a hybrid bar exam due to significant issues with the test's rollout, including scheduling difficulties and last-minute changes to study materials.
Proposed Ban on Disposable E-Cigarettes: California lawmakers introduced a bill to ban the sale of disposable e-cigarettes, citing environmental concerns and potential health risks, which could impact small businesses relying on tobacco product sales.
ExxonMobil Sues California Attorney General: ExxonMobil filed a defamation lawsuit against California Attorney General Rob Bonta and environmental groups, accusing them of conducting a "smear campaign" related to allegations of plastic pollution and misrepresentation of recycling efforts.
Former Oakland Mayor Indicted for Bribery: Former Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao, her partner Andre Jones, and businessmen Andy and David Duong were indicted for bribery, conspiracy, and fraud, involving alleged schemes to direct city contracts in exchange for political and personal benefits.