California's debt is shrinking, for now, thanks to voters who approved a tax hike and a growing economy.

It's official: Companies must now purchase permits to emit excess levels of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases in the state of California.

Six years after enacting its own law to fight global warming, California conducts its first auction of carbon permits. Companies that give off large amounts of carbon dioxide will need permits to cover the emissions.

In California, voters may have beefed up Democrats to a two thirds majority in both the Assembly and Senate — a situation the state hasn't seen since 1933.

A ballot initiative in Richmond and El Monte proposes a tax on sugar-sweetened drinks. Proponents say it could help prevent diabetes among low-income residents and generate revenue, but the soft drink industry is spending millions to block it.

Through the recession, community colleges have assumed a heavy burden: Get people ready for jobs at a time of tight employment and tight budgets.

Last year's months-long Pacific Standard Time arts event brought almost two million visitors to the city and pumped $280 million into Southern California.

Genetically modified crops are so pervasive that food companies that don't use GMO ingredients still have traces in their products.

Today a 9th Circuit court in San Francisco hears arguments on the legality of California's, first in the nation, low carbon regulation for transport fuel. The case may determine whether California becomes the U.S. leader in climate litigation.

Not much short of encouraging an oil company to build new refineries. Tough state regulation of auto pollution cuts off California from sources of gas outside the state.