KQED's The California Report

Thousands of foster children in the state are at risk of being moved from their homes. That’s after a major insurer for foster family agencies says it will no longer cover these organizations, starting this month. These agencies recruit and oversee foster parents, and without insurance, they can’t operate.Reporter: Elly Yu, LAist  California needs to do more to contain bird flu on dairy cattle ranches. That's what one infectious disease expert says, as state health officials investigate the first two confirmed human cases of bird flu in the state.Reporter: Keith Mizuguchi, The California Report Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sukey Lewis, a KQED reporter, dives into the transformative world of AI in policing, specifically focusing on how software called Draft One helps officers swiftly generate reports from bodycam audio. She raises critical questions about the accuracy of these AI-generated narratives versus human observations. The discussion touches on accountability and the essential nature of officer verification in the criminal justice system, revealing both the promise and pitfalls of relying on technology in law enforcement.

Erin Baldassari, a reporter specializing in healthcare and public policy, discusses the one-year anniversary of California's CARE Court program. She shares insights into the program's impact on reducing homelessness and jail time for individuals with severe mental illnesses. Erin highlights the challenges encountered, including trust issues among participants and the program's narrow eligibility criteria. The conversation delves into the operational framework of CARE Court and examines how effectively it addresses the needs of those affected by conditions like schizophrenia.

Joshua Yeager, a reporter delving into significant Californian events, discusses the devastating Borel Fire that ravaged Havilah, consuming 60,000 acres and upending lives. Kate Wolffe, another insightful reporter focusing on healthcare issues, uncovers legal battles surrounding abortion rights. Together, they share resilient stories of displaced residents and their path to recovery, spotlighting hope embodied by Curly the bull. The conversation highlights both community strength and the intensifying frequency of wildfires in California.

One of the highest profile measures on California's November ballot is Proposition 36. If passed, it would roll back criminal justice reforms approved by voters ten years ago to reduce incarceration rates and increase punishments for certain drug and theft crimes like carjacking, burglary and shoplifting. Supporters say Prop 36 needs to pass because of increases in some property crimes and growing public anxiety over retail theft. But what does a person who once committed those kinds of offenses think about the measure?Guest: Robyn Williams, LA ResidentNew CDC data show how important COVID vaccines are during pregnancy.Reporter: Jackie Fortier, KFF Health NewsA new poll finds a majority of California voters support two bond measures on the November ballot. Reporter: Guy Marzorati, KQED Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tyche Hendricks, a KQED reporter, shares insights into the Haitian community's reaction to former President Trump’s outrageous claims about Haitian immigrants. His false narrative sparks a criminal complaint, illustrating the emotional toll on immigrants in California. Annelise Finney discusses the recent veto by Governor Newsom of a bill aimed at helping Black families reclaim lost land, highlighting ongoing struggles for justice and reparations. Together, they delve into the broader impacts of political rhetoric within minority communities.

In this discussion, reporter Saul Gonzalez dives into a shocking courthouse bombing in Santa Maria, where a man threw an explosive device, injuring several. He details the aftermath, including evacuations and the swift arrest of a suspect linked to personal motives. The conversation also touches on a growing trend of launching cremated ashes into space, revealing the touching story of a woman honoring her sister's wish for a cosmic memorial. It’s a captivating blend of crime reporting and the evolving practices in memorialization.

Gustavo Solis, a journalist focused on drug smuggling, discusses the alarming trend of Mexican cartels recruiting San Diego teens to smuggle fentanyl. He sheds light on misconceptions around how this drug enters the U.S. Ana Ibarra, a reporter on credit report legislation, highlights a new California law that removes medical debt from credit histories, aiming to ease financial pressures for residents. Together, they address the urgent need for awareness and education on the deadly implications of fentanyl trafficking.

California Governor Gavin Newsom discusses the recent law mandating cell phone restrictions in schools. He highlights the success at Marina Del Rey Middle School, where students are thriving without phones, thanks to a unique pouch system. The conversation dives into the positive effects of reduced device dependence on academic engagement and social interaction. Students share their mixed feelings, revealing humorous challenges yet showing noticeable improvements in focus and camaraderie, setting a trend for other districts.

Manola Secaira, a dedicated agriculture and climate reporter for CapRadio, dives into how California farmers are pivoting to agave cultivation amid severe climate challenges. With rising temperatures and persistent drought, traditional crops like almonds are becoming increasingly difficult to grow. Personal stories from farmers reveal their innovative adaptations and the meticulous process of preparing agave for distillation. This shift not only shows resilience but also hints at the promising potential of a burgeoning local agave industry.