The California Legislature extended its annual session into an extra day, approving a raft of measures on Artificial Intelligence regulation, aid for children of illegal immigrants, and environmental policies.
The push came amid a projected $12 billion budget deficit and declining federal funds, leaving Gov. Gavin Newsom to decide by mid-October on hundreds of bills.
The lawmakers adjourned Sept. 13 after finalizing deals, especially on stalled climate initiatives. They extended the state’s cap-and-trade emissions program, boosted wildfire funding, and allowed increased oil production with the goal of stabilizing fuel prices.
From about 1,200 introduced bills, hundreds advanced, targeting issues on housing, labor rights, and technology….