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Citizen Portal News California
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Caltrans has unveiled significant updates to the Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program, including a $900 million funding baseline and new metrics to prioritize climate-focused projects.

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#CA #CitizenPortal #ClimateAction #SustainableDevelopment #PublicTransportation
Caltrans outlines TIRCP Cycle 8 changes, adds CSIS metrics and estimates $900 million baseline
Caltrans staff detailed Cycle 8 updates to the Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program, including the addition of Caltrans’ CSIS/CAPTI alignment metrics, revised CARB guidance and an estimated $900 million funding baseline; staff also clarified reimbursement rules and eligibility in extended Q&A.
citizenportal.ai
February 18, 2026 at 5:56 AM
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The California Board is revisiting the potential impact of PSYPACT, exploring new eligibility pathways that could redefine telepsychology across the state.

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#CA #CitizenPortal #ConsumerProtection #InterstateCompact #PsychologyStandards
Board reopens PSYPACT review; will reconstitute telepsychology committee to examine eligibility and enforcement
After reviewing changes to PSYPACT1s eligibility pathways (including a new pathway that could allow some non-APA graduates to qualify), the board agreed to re-establish a telepsychology committee to examine compact implications for California, and requested a future presentation from PSYPACT leadership.
citizenportal.ai
February 18, 2026 at 5:31 AM
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The Lahontan Water Board has taken a significant step by adopting new waste discharge requirements for the Mojave Rosamond landfill, ensuring enhanced safety and monitoring for groundwater contamination.

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#CA #CitizenPortal #WasteManagement #WaterQuality #GroundwaterProtection
Lahontan board adopts revised waste discharge requirements for Mojave Rosamond landfill
The Lahontan Regional Water Quality Control Board voted unanimously to adopt revised waste discharge requirements and a corrective action program for the Mojave Rosamond Recycling and Sanitary Landfill, approving engineered-liner requirements and monitoring for a proposed Phase 2 expansion and documenting past groundwater impacts by volatile organic compounds.
citizenportal.ai
February 18, 2026 at 5:13 AM
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Caltrans has unveiled a staggering $17 billion plan for California's highways, but with storm damage costs exceeding $1 billion, can they truly fix it all?

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#CA #SustainableTransit #InfrastructureImprovement #CitizenPortal #EmergencyResponse
Caltrans presents rebalance of proposed 2026 SHOP, cites storm costs and capacity constraints
Caltrans told the California Transportation Commission that the draft 2026 State Highway Operation and Protection Program was rebalanced because allocation capacity is limited and recent storm/emergency costs exceeded $1 billion; the department emphasized asset preservation and an interactive project dashboard. The commission will consider adoption in March.
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February 18, 2026 at 4:53 AM
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The Lahontan Regional Water Quality Control Board is making waves with significant staffing changes, a heartfelt tribute to a longtime member, and a troubling spike in enforcement violations—what does this mean for the future of water quality in California?

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#CA #PublicHealth
Lahontan executive officer highlights enforcement settlements, staffing changes and violations spike
Executive Officer Ben Letten presented the Lahontan executive officer report covering Oct'Dec 2025, recognized longtime board member Keith Dias, announced promotions and hires, and staff reported a spike in third-quarter violations tied to statewide permit re-enrollment deadlines and two sizeable administrative civil liability settlements.
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February 18, 2026 at 4:37 AM
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The San Jacinto School District faces a troubling budget crisis with potential layoffs on the horizon and a $4.8 million reduction plan in the works.

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#CA #JobProtection #CitizenPortal #SanJacintoSchools
San Jacinto board hears midyear budget reality, files negative interim and schedules layoffs; FCMAT-style fiscal review launched
The San Jacinto School District presented a midyear budget update showing enrollment-driven revenue loss and rising special-education costs, filed a negative interim certification, approved a $4.8 million reduction plan and moved forward with staff layoff notifications while a state fiscal health analysis proceeds.
citizenportal.ai
February 18, 2026 at 4:07 AM
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The Board of Psychology Licensure Committee is facing mounting pressure over disheartening EPPP pass rates, with test takers calling for urgent reform and alternative exam formats.

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#CA #CitizenPortal #ProfessionalLicensure #ExamReform
Licensure committee hears urgent public concern over national EPPP as staff outline timeline for new integrated exam
The Board of Psychology Licensure Committee heard widespread public concern about low EPPP pass rates and potential cultural and accessibility barriers; Executive Officer Jonathan Burke said a blueprint for ASPPB's integrated exam will be public around Feb. 1, 2026, with item writing in 2026 and beta testing and launch targeted for 2027.
citizenportal.ai
February 18, 2026 at 3:09 AM
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Los Angeles just took a major step to protect renters from extreme heat by adopting a new indoor maximum-temperature policy—ensuring no one has to live in a "sweaty box."

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#LosAngelesCityLosAngelesCounty #CA #PublicHealth #CitizenPortal #ExtremeHeat #LosAngelesTenants
Los Angeles Council adopts indoor maximum-temperature standard for rental housing
The Los Angeles City Council on Feb. 17 voted to adopt an indoor maximum-temperature policy for rental housing (agenda item 12), instructing city departments to align building-code updates with county action and Senate Bill 130; supporters said the move protects tenant health during extreme heat.
citizenportal.ai
February 18, 2026 at 3:03 AM
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A groundbreaking change is coming to California's psychology licensure exam in 2027, merging knowledge and skills into a single, innovative test format with new question types.

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#CA #CivicAccountability #ExamAccessibility #CitizenPortal
ASPPB unveils integrated EPPP; California board presses for data, access and a transition plan
ASPPB presented an integrated version of the EPPP to be operational in April 2027 that combines knowledge and skills in a single computer-based exam. California board members pressed for clarity on pass-rate impacts, accommodations, fees, sample exams and how non-APA graduates might be affected; ASPPB committed to sample exams, beta testing, and publishing fee decisions soon.
citizenportal.ai
February 18, 2026 at 1:50 AM
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California's Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program is set to unlock nearly $900 million for rail and transit projects, with application deadlines fast approaching!

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#CA #CitizenPortal #EquityInTransportation #TransportationFunding #GreenhouseGasReduction
CalSTA previews TIRCP draft guidelines, sets funding estimate and application timeline
California State Transportation Agency staff outlined draft updates to the Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program guidelines, said they expect about $900 million for the next cycle, and set public-comment and application deadlines while noting the cap-and-invest appropriation is now capped at $400 million per year under staff assumptions.
citizenportal.ai
February 18, 2026 at 1:37 AM
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California's Board of Psychology just voted to support a groundbreaking bill that mandates client consent before therapists can use AI to record or transcribe sessions, ensuring your privacy in the age of technology.

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#CA #AIEthics #CitizenPortal #HealthPrivacy #ClientConsent
Board votes to support SB 903, which would require client consent before AI transcription/recording in therapy
The Board voted to support SB 903 (Padilla), a bill requiring client consent before licensed mental-health professionals use artificial intelligence to record or transcribe therapy sessions. Members asked staff to monitor amendments on retention, privacy and enforcement and to revisit the position if language changes.
citizenportal.ai
February 18, 2026 at 12:15 AM
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The Circular Action Alliance is set to change the recycling game in California with retroactive reimbursements and a massive $5 billion fund aimed at promoting responsible end markets and sustainable practices!

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#CA #CitizenPortal #RecyclingInfrastructure #EnvironmentalJustice
Producer responsibility group says reimbursements, end‑market investments and reuse will be central once CAA plan is approved
CAA and advisory‑board members told webinar attendees the producer responsibility organization will collect fees, reimburse jurisdictions retroactively to 2023, invest in end‑markets and reuse/refill programs, and run education and outreach once the program plan is approved.
citizenportal.ai
February 18, 2026 at 12:14 AM
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California's SB 54 is facing major delays due to withdrawn regulations, and local governments could face hefty penalties of up to $50,000 a day for noncompliance!

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#CA #ProducerResponsibility #CitizenPortal #RegulatoryReform
Speakers at statewide webinar say SB 54 implementation stalled by withdrawn regulations, warn of heavy penalties for noncompliance
Authors, local officials and the producer responsibility organization told a statewide webinar that delayed CalRecycle regulations have postponed SB 54 implementation, outlined enforcement risks (civil penalties up to $50,000 per day per uncovered category), and urged local governments to begin planning for collection and reimbursement now.
citizenportal.ai
February 18, 2026 at 12:04 AM
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FEMA's recent ruling has thrown a wrench in crucial flood-risk projects in Ross, leaving residents and officials scrambling for solutions and clarity.

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#RossMarinCounty #CA #CitizenPortal #EnvironmentalTransparency #PublicSafety #RossFloodManagement #CommunityPlanning
Flood Zone 9 liaison warns FEMA ruling delays removal of fish ladder and other projects; county pledges more transparency
Flood Zone 9 liaison Chris Martin told the council FEMA will not approve removal of Building Bridge 2 or the Ross fish ladder until downstream mitigation measures are completed; the county had known about the ruling before the advisory board meeting, prompting calls for better transparency.
citizenportal.ai
February 17, 2026 at 6:01 PM
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Pomona Unified is reshaping its Career Technical Education pathways based on insights from over 400 student surveys, spotlighting booming fields like health sciences and construction!

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#CA #CitizenPortal #StudentEngagement #WorkforceDevelopment
Pomona Unified outlines CTE priorities, student survey results and plans for dual enrollment
District staff presented CTE/ROP pathway data — more than 400 student survey responses — showing top interest in health sciences, arts/media, fashion and construction. Staff described current labs, dual-enrollment options with Mt. SAC, and an April career/job fair; the board requested a June follow-up with school-level breakdowns and success metrics.
citizenportal.ai
February 17, 2026 at 5:56 PM
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The Town of Ross is taking a bold step forward by seeking architectural and engineering expertise to bring their Facilities Master Plan to life, all while incorporating fresh ideas from a newly formed citizen advisory group.

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#RossMarinCounty #CA #CommunityEngagement
Ross council authorizes RFQ for architects and engineers to advance Civic Center planning, with expanded scope to reflect new citizen input
Council authorized release of an RFQ for architectural and engineering services to move the Facilities Master Plan toward implementation, and amended the RFQ language to require firms to be prepared to assist with master‑plan evaluation and possible revisions suggested by the new citizens advisory group.
citizenportal.ai
February 17, 2026 at 5:55 PM
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The Ross Town Council is taking a bold step towards affordable housing by authorizing a request for qualifications to develop nine units at the Civic Center, sparking debate and excitement in the community.

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#RossMarinCounty #CA #RossAffordableHousing #CitizenPortal
Ross council authorizes RFQ seeking partners for nine affordable units at Civic Center, 3‑2 vote
Council authorized release of an RFQ to solicit developers or nonprofit partners to deliver nine affordable housing units at the Ross Civic Center (target ≤80% AMI). Supporters cited HCD obligations and long funding timelines; opponents said the town lacks a credible site financing plan and urged more committee work first.
citizenportal.ai
February 17, 2026 at 5:50 PM
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The Pomona Unified School District board unanimously denied Rhodes Academy's charter petition, citing significant gaps in operational details and special education plans, leaving the future of the proposed school in jeopardy.

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#CA #CivicAccountability #CitizenPortal
Pomona Unified denies Rhodes Academy charter petition after staff finds operational, special-education and facilities gaps
The Pomona Unified School District board voted 5–0 to deny a charter petition from Rhodes Academy School of Business and Financial Literacy after staff concluded the proposal lacked sufficient operational detail, verifiable teacher signatures, facility plans and clear special-education arrangements. The petitioner disputed the findings and urged conditions rather than denial.
citizenportal.ai
February 17, 2026 at 5:15 PM
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The Port of San Francisco's overwater structures are in a concerning state, averaging a rating of just 3.5—between 'fair' and 'poor'—with urgent repairs needed at Pier 54 after alarming inspection findings.

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#SanFranciscoCitySanFranciscoCounty #CA #AssetManagement
Port engineers report average 'fair-to-poor' condition for overwater structures; Pier 54 previously red-tagged
Acting chief harbor engineer Matt Bell reported the Rapid Structural Assessment program has inspected the port's overwater portfolio (about 7,000,000 sq ft), assigned systemwide ratings averaging about 3.5 (between 'fair' and 'poor'), and used inspections to vacate and relocate tenants from Pier 54 ahead of failure.
citizenportal.ai
February 17, 2026 at 7:24 AM
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The Port of San Francisco is unveiling a bold budget plan for FY2026–28 that tackles $1.9 billion in unfunded needs while prioritizing critical projects like the $35 million Pier 45 West Apron upgrade.

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#SanFranciscoCitySanFranciscoCounty #CA #CitizenPortal #SanFranciscoBudget
Port unveils FY2026–28 operating and capital budget; biennial CIP relies heavily on fund balance and one-time sources
Finance staff presented a proposed biennial operating budget (approx. $131.2M and $134.6M) and a $123.6M capital budget for FY2026–28, noting a $1.9B long-term unfunded needs estimate in the 10-year plan and staff plans to explore debt financing and public–private partnerships to stretch resources.
citizenportal.ai
February 17, 2026 at 7:23 AM
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The Port of San Francisco is setting the stage for a vibrant future with its ambitious 2026-2030 strategic plan, showcasing a stellar response during the Super Bowl and a commitment to sustainability and community engagement.

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#SanFranciscoCitySanFranciscoCounty #CA
Acting Port Director lays out 2026–2030 strategic plan, highlights Super Bowl readiness
Acting Executive Director Michael Martin presented a five-year strategic plan emphasizing partnership, resilience, and revenue generation while praising staff response during the Super Bowl and announcing operational pilots such as an overnight cleaning crew.
citizenportal.ai
February 17, 2026 at 7:22 AM
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Arvin's council is taking a closer look at truck parking regulations as tensions rise between residents and truckers over noise, safety, and space.

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#ArvinCityKernCounty #CA #CommunityEngagement #CitizenPortal #ArvinCity #UrbanPlanning #PublicSafety
Arvin council opens review of truck‑parking rules after residents and truckers raise competing concerns
Staff proposed updating Arvin Municipal Code chapter 12.16 to address truck parking that predates nearby residential development; council asked staff to study signage, enforcement, jurisdictional limits and potential off‑street parking options and return in March.
citizenportal.ai
February 17, 2026 at 1:36 AM
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The City Administrative Officer has unveiled a strategy to potentially save up to $62 million in homelessness spending, but council members are demanding more data before making any cuts.

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#LosAngelesCityLosAngelesCounty #CA #HousingInitiatives #EquityInclusion #CitizenPortal
CAO outlines options to cut 10–15% of homelessness spending; council pauses to seek project-level data
The City Administrative Officer presented a menu of options to reduce homelessness spending by 10–15% (about $42–$62 million) across categories including demobilization, small sites, city-paid leases, InsightSafe motel leasing and safe parking; the committee continued the item and requested project-level analyses, utilization data and county participation before any decision.
citizenportal.ai
February 17, 2026 at 1:02 AM
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California City residents and advocates are demanding action against CoreCivic's detention facility, citing shocking allegations of medical neglect and poor living conditions.

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#CaliforniaCityKernCounty #CA #CivicAccountability #CitizenPortal #PublicSafety
Residents, advocates press California City council to enforce codes and curb CoreCivic operations
Dozens of residents, legal advocates and local activists urged the council to enforce municipal codes, require CoreCivic to obtain a conditional use permit and pursue SB 29 processes; speakers alleged medical neglect and poor conditions at the detention facility and asked the city to pursue alternatives and state HEAL workforce funding.
citizenportal.ai
February 17, 2026 at 1:01 AM
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The California State Assembly unanimously adopted a resolution honoring the legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

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#CA #CitizenPortal #CommunityHonor #LegislativeAction #CivilRights
Assembly Adopts Consent Calendar, Including SCR 107 Honoring Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
On Jan. 20, 2026, the California State Assembly adopted the second-day consent calendar (including Senate Concurrent Resolution 107 honoring Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.) by a recorded tally of 63 yes, 0 no.
citizenportal.ai
February 17, 2026 at 12:47 AM