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State of Delaware, ChristianaCare Reach Agreement to Pause and Potentially Settle HB350 Lawsuit, Strengthen Healthcare
DOVER, Delaware, Oct. 9 -- Gov. Matt Meyer, D-Delaware, issued the following news release:
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State of Delaware, ChristianaCare Reach Agreement to Pause and Potentially Settle HB350 Lawsuit, Strengthen Healthcare
Under agreement, Delawareans will get transparency and a path toward reinvestment in healthcare
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WILMINGTON -- The State of Delaware and ChristianaCare today announced an agreement that pauses ongoing litigation related to HB 350 and creates a path forward to settle the case, upon terms that will enhance hospital transparency, accountability, and includes a commitment to negotiate
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DOVER, Delaware, Oct. 9 -- Gov. Matt Meyer, D-Delaware, issued the following news release:
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State of Delaware, ChristianaCare Reach Agreement to Pause and Potentially Settle HB350 Lawsuit, Strengthen Healthcare
Under agreement, Delawareans will get transparency and a path toward reinvestment in healthcare
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WILMINGTON -- The State of Delaware and ChristianaCare today announced an agreement that pauses ongoing litigation related to HB 350 and creates a path forward to settle the case, upon terms that will enhance hospital transparency, accountability, and includes a commitment to negotiateadditional healthcare workforce investments.
"With the cost of healthcare rising faster than ever before, we must hold our nonprofit hospitals to account, and we must do so within the law," Governor Matt Meyer said. "Every Delawarean deserves access to world-class, affordable healthcare, and together we are working to make that a reality. This agreement keeps healthcare dollars with patients, not in the courtroom."
"We are encouraged by this important step toward legislation that is reflective of a collaborative process and recognizes the value of working together with health systems to create real solutions on health care costs," President and CEO of ChristianaCare, Janice E. Nevin, M.D. MPH said. "We remain committed to working with Governor Meyer and our partners across the state to address health care affordability while preserving what matters most: access to high-quality care for Delawareans."
The agreement signed by Governor Meyer and Dr. Nevin addresses legislative solutions to the current HB350 law and shows collaboration between the two parties.
The agreement also includes a commitment by ChristianaCare to submit employee claims data to the Delaware Health Information Network (DHIN) to enhance transparency and benchmarking efforts. Additionally, ChristianaCare has committed to negotiate in good faith with the governor, other hospitals, and key stakeholders on a health care workforce loan forgiveness investment in Fall 2025.
If the terms of the agreement are met, the litigation will be dismissed.
For any questions or to schedule a one-on-one interview with Governor Meyer, please email govcomm@delaware.gov.
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Original text here: https://news.delaware.gov/2025/10/08/state-of-delaware-christianacare-reach-agreement-to-pause-and-potentially-settle-hb350-lawsuit-strengthen-healthcare/
Pa. Gov. Shapiro Announces New PA SITES Awards, Investing Over $39 Million in 11 Projects Across the Commonwealth
HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, Oct. 9 -- Gov. Josh Shapiro, D-Pennsylvania, issued the following news release on Oct. 8, 2025:
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Governor Shapiro Announces New PA SITES Awards, Investing Over $39 Million in 11 Projects Across the Commonwealth
Governor Shapiro created the PA SITES program after consulting with national site selectors, allowing Pennsylvania to develop more readily available sites to attract companies, investment, and good jobs to the Commonwealth.
Including this new second round, the Shapiro Administration has invested a total of $113.6 million in PA SITES funding for 29 projects
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HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, Oct. 9 -- Gov. Josh Shapiro, D-Pennsylvania, issued the following news release on Oct. 8, 2025:
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Governor Shapiro Announces New PA SITES Awards, Investing Over $39 Million in 11 Projects Across the Commonwealth
Governor Shapiro created the PA SITES program after consulting with national site selectors, allowing Pennsylvania to develop more readily available sites to attract companies, investment, and good jobs to the Commonwealth.
Including this new second round, the Shapiro Administration has invested a total of $113.6 million in PA SITES funding for 29 projectsacross the Commonwealth -- transforming underused land into job-creating, shovel-ready sites that attract businesses and drive economic growth.
A major priority outlined in the Shapiro Administration's Economic Development Strategy, the Governor secured $500 million for site development, including $400 million for PA SITES, in the 2024-25 bipartisan budget.
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Mayfield, PA - Today, Governor Josh Shapiro and Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) Secretary Rick Siger announced that the Commonwealth is investing over $39 million in 11 new projects through the PA SITES (Pennsylvania Strategic Investments to Enhance Sites) program to build more shovel-ready industrial sites across the Commonwealth -- helping attract businesses, investment, and good-paying jobs to Pennsylvania.
"When I came into office, I made it clear that Pennsylvania would compete again -- and now we're not just competing, we're winning," said Governor Shapiro. "For too long, abandoned mineland like this site sat vacant because we didn't have the resources or the speed to get companies up and running. We fixed that -- investing $500 million to build shovel-ready sites and cutting red tape so projects can move faster. Here in Lackawanna County, we're turning dirt into jobs and opportunity and these 11 PA SITES awards will help communities across Pennsylvania do the same -- attracting new businesses, creating good-paying jobs, and laying the foundation for long-term economic growth."
"Pennsylvania has many of the resources companies are looking for to grow - a skilled workforce, abundant natural resources, and a strategic location - but for too long, we lacked the ready-to-build sites that growing businesses need to make Pennsylvania their home," said Secretary Siger. "The Governor created the PA SITES program as part of our 10-Year Economic Development Strategy to fix that -- and these projects will create good jobs, expand opportunity, and strengthen Pennsylvania's economy for years to come."
Governor Shapiro and Secretary Siger made today's PA SITES announcement in Mayfield, where Century Development Associates, LLC is receiving a $6 million grant from the program to support critical infrastructure development on a major economic development site. The company will develop two large-scale manufacturing or logistics sites on part of a 230-acre former coal mine property spanning Mayfield and Archbald Boroughs in Lackawanna County.
PA SITES funds will support nearly one mile of grading and utility extensions -- including natural gas, electric, water, and sanitary sewer -- and the acquisition of a PennDOT Right-of-Way to make the sites fully shovel-ready. Once the first site is completed, it will be sold to generate cash flow to complete excavation for the second site. The total cost to get the land ready for development is $52.29 million, and Century Development estimates the entire project, including warehouse construction, will cost up to $100 million.
In September 2023, the Borough of Mayfield received a $14.9 million grant through the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection's (DEP) Abandoned Mine Lands and Acid Mine Drainage (AML/AMLER) Grant Program to perform mine reclamation activities on approximately 87 acres of the site in advance of the PA SITES-funded work. The DEP funding is supporting removal of mine spoil piles, excavation and backfilling of the Clark underground mine complex, drainage installation, and grading to reclaim the land for future development.
The Office of Transformation and Opportunity (OTO) designated Century Development for the Governor's PA Permit Fast Track Program in April 2025, which streamlines permitting for key economic development and infrastructure projects. Thanks to OTO's coordination, five of the required permits were completed ahead of schedule. Century Development reports that the Fast Track program has helped save roughly 18 months in project development time.
Pennsylvania is the first state to create a project-based permitting fast track program for complex and impactful economic development and infrastructure projects -- building on Governor Shapiro's work to reduce wait times and improve processes across the Commonwealth's permitting, licensing, and certification processes.
Governor Shapiro and his Administration developed PA SITES after soliciting feedback from national site selectors who help companies decide where to relocate and grow. Governor Shapiro worked across the aisle to secure $500 million for site development in his 2024-25 bipartisan budget, including $400 million for PA SITES. As a result of the program's early success and the Governor's economic development strategy, Pennsylvania was ranked the top state in the Northeast for Regional Economic Competitiveness by Site Selection Magazine.
The first round of PA SITES awards was announced in May. DCED administers the program and continues to accept applications and award grants and loans for eligible projects on a rolling quarterly basis.
"I'll tell you -- the Office of Transformation and Opportunity -- can't say enough good things about them," said Mark Powell, President, Century Land Development. "Speed matters. This has been an excellent program -- we're moving dirt, getting a lot of inquiries about the site, and now that work is underway, we've got the community's attention and we're on our way."
"Lackawanna County is on the brink of growth in various areas, and we are excited to embrace this opportunity to help our communities thrive and keep our residents employed in family-sustaining jobs," said Kristin Magnotta, Director of the Lackawanna County Department of Planning and Economic Development. "What makes this project particularly special is its reclamation of old coal mine-scarred lands through the AMLER program, transforming these areas into fruitful development sites. The PA SITES program provides the resources needed to ensure that Pennsylvania and Lackawanna County have available shovel-ready sites to compete for major industries. The support from the state gives lands such as these a second chance at life -- creating opportunities for growth, living wages, and solid employment for our residents."
"Over the past two years, we've seen firsthand Governor Shapiro's commitment to strengthening Pennsylvania's economy, supporting working families, and creating opportunities in every corner of our Commonwealth," said Commissioner Bill Gaughan, Board of Commissioners, Lackawanna County. "Here in Lackawanna County, that commitment isn't just words -- it's action, it's investment, and it's a clear vision that Pennsylvania can and must compete to attract new businesses, new industries, and good-paying, family-sustaining jobs."
"Lackawanna County is the right place for this investment -- we've got a workforce second to none and the ideal location for industry to grow," said Representative Kyle Mullins. "I'm proud to welcome Governor Shapiro and Secretary Siger to our community and make it clear to our business community that they've got a partner in state government to help rehabilitate old mine land, create jobs, and build a better tomorrow for all of us."
In addition to the Century Development Associates project in Lackawanna County, PA SITES program funding is being awarded to the following recipients:
* Allegheny County - $6,000,000 grant to Nichol Avenue McKees Rocks LLC to assist with the phase two development of a distribution and logistics park on a 72-acre brownfield site, the former Pressed Steel Car Company McKees Rocks Works Plant, in Stowe Township. PA SITES funding would include acquisition of land along the rail-spur, soil screening and disposal, rail-spur reconstruction, stormwater controls, utility relocation, sewer line replacement, and remediation.
* Berks County - $250,000 grant to the City of Reading for a comprehensive real estate plan on a city-owned 50-acre vacant property, known as the Dana site. The property is a legacy brownfield that previously housed industrial and manufacturing operations. The plan will include environmental reviews, evaluation of environmental constraints, confirmation of utility capacity, and to determine if utility systems require upgrades or reconfigurations based upon end user needs.
* Bucks County - $150,000 grant to the Bucks County Industrial Development Authority to explore the feasibility of developing a new laboratory and office building on a 2.85-acre lot, directly across the street from the existing Pennsylvania Biotechnology Center (PABC) campus on Old Easton Road in Buckingham Township. PA SITES funds would be used for engineering costs for the feasibility study.
* Crawford County - $8,500,000 grant to the Economic Progress Alliance of Crawford County (EPACC) to demolish Building 1-6 at the Crawford Business Park in Vernon Township. Building 1-6 is a six story, approximately 120,000 square foot building that has been vacant since 1986. PA SITES funds will be used for environmental remediation, demolition, and administration. EPACC is prepared to build a new 40,000 square foot manufacturing facility on the prepared site.
* Erie County - $121,740 grant to the Enterprise Development Center of Erie County for a planning grant for the development of a 160-acre site in the McKean Business Park located on 6450-6458 Sterrettania Road in McKean Township. PA SITES funds will be used for professional engineering services in the schematic design phase and the design development/permitting phase.
* Lebanon County - $2,000,000 grant to Allen Distribution Corporation to develop utility extension and transportation improvements for the Myerstown Light Industrial Site parcel to be marketed for activities such as packaging and distribution, food and beverages, and wholesale businesses and sales. PA SITES funding would go to extend water, sewer, and power utility lines and for off-site transportation improvements.
* Luzerne County - $8,000,000 grant to 289 MQOF LLC to construct the 15-building CrossRoads East Business Park on a 685-acre former coal mining site with a planned 6,842,850-square-feet in usable industrial space. PA SITES funds will be used for engineering and initial site preparation costs, including land clearance, internal roadway construction, sewer, and utilities infrastructure.
* Philadelphia - $250,000 grant to the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development (PAID) for a complete market/economic analysis, infrastructure gap analysis, and preliminary site plan for the Lower Schuylkill Innovation Campus (LSIC) in Philadelphia. PA SITES funds will be used for professional services and consulting costs associated with site planning analysis.
* Washington County - a total of $7,700,400 to Imperial Land Corporation. A grant of $5,175,000 and a loan of $2,525,400 for work on phases two and three of the Fort Cherry Development District (FCCD). When combined with phase one, the initial phases of the FCDD will feature approximately 2.3 million square feet of space at full build-out. Industrial, flex, and office users ranging from 90,000 to 500,000-square-feet can be accommodated. PA SITES funds will go to the extension of roadways (including associated stormwater management) and site utilities (water, sewage, stormwater, and gas).
* York County - $457,184 grant to Yazoo Mills, Inc, to help with transportation upgrades to support the development of a 13-acre parcel for construction of a 106,250-square-foot packaging and paper manufacturing facility within Penn Township's Industrial Park, a Keystone Opportunity Zone. PA SITES funding will be utilized for roadway construction to support development on the 13-acre lot and other available lots within the Industrial Park.
Investing in Economic Development in Pennsylvania
Governor Shapiro is delivering real results for Pennsylvania's workers and businesses. Since day one, his Administration has taken bold steps to strengthen the economy and attract new investment:
* Secured $500 million in site development funding to attract businesses, create jobs, and drive long-term economic growth.
* Since taking office, the Shapiro Administration has secured over $25.6 billion in private sector investments, creating more than 12,500 jobs.
* Cut business filing wait times from 8 weeks to just 2 days, making it easier for entrepreneurs to start and expand their businesses.
* Increased the Net Operating Loss (NOL) Deduction Limit, allowing businesses to reduce taxable income by up to 80 percent by 2029 - keeping Pennsylvania competitive with other states.
* Proposed accelerating Corporate Net Income Tax (CNIT) cuts by two years, reducing the tax rate by 0.75 percent annually and lowering it to 4.99 percent by 2029.
Learn more about the Shapiro Administration's efforts to support Pennsylvania's workers and businesses and spur the economy in the Governor's 2025-26 budget proposal at shapirobudget.pa.gov and discover how the Administration is creating economic opportunity to build a stronger, more competitive economy for all Pennsylvanians.
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Original text here: https://www.pa.gov/governor/newsroom/2025-press-releases/gov-shapiro-announces-new-pa-sites-awards-over--39m-11-projects-
N.H. Gov. Ayotte: Governor's Highway Safety Task Force Unveils Recommendations in New Report
CONCORD, New Hampshire, Oct. 9 (TNSrpt) -- Gov. Kelly Ayotte, R-New Hampshire, issued the following news release on Oct. 8, 2025:
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Governor's Highway Safety Task Force Unveils Recommendations in New Report
Governor Ayotte and the Governor's Special Task Force on Highway Safety today presented its report with recommendations to save lives and address pressing challenges on New Hampshire roads, including speeding, wrong-way driving, and distracted driving.
Led by Department of Safety Commissioner Robert Quinn and Attorney General John Formella, in coordination with the Office of the Governor
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CONCORD, New Hampshire, Oct. 9 (TNSrpt) -- Gov. Kelly Ayotte, R-New Hampshire, issued the following news release on Oct. 8, 2025:
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Governor's Highway Safety Task Force Unveils Recommendations in New Report
Governor Ayotte and the Governor's Special Task Force on Highway Safety today presented its report with recommendations to save lives and address pressing challenges on New Hampshire roads, including speeding, wrong-way driving, and distracted driving.
Led by Department of Safety Commissioner Robert Quinn and Attorney General John Formella, in coordination with the Office of the Governorand Executive Councilor John Stephen, the task force examined current laws, policies, and data, and collaborated with local officials, law enforcement, traffic engineers, and community advocates to ensure a broad range of perspectives were represented in its findings. Click here to view and download the report (https://www.governor.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt971/files/media/media_document/highway-safety-task-force-prelim-rec-report-20250925.pdf).
"To ensure our state remains the safest in the nation, we must do better when it comes to saving lives and improving highway safety," said Governor Ayotte. "I thank Commissioner Quinn, Attorney General Formella, Councilor Stephen, and all of the members of my Highway Safety Task Force for their hard work and collaboration on this important issue. This report gives us a strong roadmap to keep drivers, road crews, law enforcement, and everyone who travels our highways each day safe."
"Nothing is more important than saving lives, which we can do by preventing serious crashes on our roads," added Commissioner Quinn. "I am grateful for the collaborative work of this Task Force to form these recommendations. Our residents and visitors should know we see what's happening throughout the state, and we are committed to dedicating the fullest extent of our resources to combat these dangerous and deadly trends."
"The recommendations put forward by the Governor's Highway Safety Task Force represent a strong and practical strategy to make New Hampshire's roads safer. Each of us - law enforcement, policymakers, and drivers alike - has a role to play in preventing crashes and saving lives," said Attorney General Formella. "The New Hampshire Department of Justice looks forward to working with our state and local partners to implement these measures and hold accountable those who put others at risk."
"By bringing together state agencies with local law enforcement, members of the Legislature, AAA, advocates, and victims' families, we've put together sound recommendations that will help save lives and make our roads safer," Executive Councilor Stephen concluded. "Effective Highway safety outcomes come, not only from law enforcement, but through a collaboration of many state and local partners working together to make an impact in every community of this state. That is what Governor Ayotte did by convening this task force. I commend her for that, and I was proud to be a part of it. I look forward to working with the Governor to see these recommendations through so we can improve highway safety, reduce the number of crashes, and save more lives."
Highway Safety Task Force Members:
* Attorney General John Formella, Department of Justice
* Executive Councilor John Stephen
* Commissioner Robert Quinn, Department of Safety
* Assistant Commissioner Eddie Edwards, Department of Safety
* Colonel Mark Hall, New Hampshire State Police
* Commissioner William Cass, Department of Transportation
* Director John Marasco, Division of Motor Vehicles, Department of Safety
* Senator Regina Birdsell
* Senator Howard Pearl
* Senator Mark McConkey
* Senator Donovan Fenton
* Senator Tim McGough
* Senator Bill Gannon
* Representative Jennifer Rhodes
* Representative Ross Berry
* Representative Ted Gorski
* Representative Terry Roy
* Representative Thomas Walsh
* Representative Nancy Murphy
* Sheriff William Wright, Belknap County, President of Sheriff's Association
* John Coughlin, Hillsborough County Attorney
* Kimberly Tessari, Deputy Attorney, Carroll County
* Lt. Chris Storm, New Hampshire State Police
* Stephen Pecora, Special Assistant to the Governor, Office of the Governor
* Alexandria Morrell, Traffic Safety Resource Prosecutor and Attorney General's Representative, Department of Justice
* Ryan McFarland, Bureau of Hearings Chief, Department of Safety
* Tim Crowley, President, New Hampshire Association of Chiefs of Police
* Mike Geha, President, New Hampshire Police Association
* Rod Forey, Retired New Hampshire State Police
* Dan Goodman, AAA Northern New England
* Bob Kelley, Amethyst Foundation
* Beth Shaw, Parent Road Safety Advocate
* David Croke, Parent Road Safety Advocate
* Jacob Evangelista, Youth Representative
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REPORT: https://www.governor.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt971/files/media/media_document/highway-safety-task-force-prelim-rec-report-20250925.pdf
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Original text here: https://www.governor.nh.gov/news/governors-highway-safety-task-force-unveils-recommendations-new-report
Calif. Gov. Newsom, First Partner Mark Latina Equal Pay Day, Sign Pay Equity Enforcement Act
SACRAMENTO, California, Oct. 9 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on Oct. 8, 2025:
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Governor, First Partner mark Latina Equal Pay Day, sign Pay Equity Enforcement Act
Today, Governor Gavin Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom marked Latina Equal Pay Day, recognizing the unique challenges Latina women face in the fight to close the wage gap. The date, October 8, symbolizes how far into the next year a Latina must work to earn what a white, non-Hispanic man earned in the previous year.
Governor Newsom signed the "Pay Equity Enforcement Act,"
... Show Full Article
SACRAMENTO, California, Oct. 9 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on Oct. 8, 2025:
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Governor, First Partner mark Latina Equal Pay Day, sign Pay Equity Enforcement Act
Today, Governor Gavin Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom marked Latina Equal Pay Day, recognizing the unique challenges Latina women face in the fight to close the wage gap. The date, October 8, symbolizes how far into the next year a Latina must work to earn what a white, non-Hispanic man earned in the previous year.
Governor Newsom signed the "Pay Equity Enforcement Act,"SB 642 by Senator Monique Limon (D-Santa Barbara), to strengthen California's Equal Pay Act and to further narrow the wage gap through greater enforcement and transparency. This measure will empower women seeking jobs and give them additional tools to ensure they are fairly paid.
Latinas are the backbone of many communities in California, driving growth in every sector from innovation to education to health care. Through essential legislation such as the Pay Equity Enforcement Act, California is building an economy rooted in fairness, equity, and opportunity for all. - Governor Gavin Newsom
Latina women give so much of themselves to this state, to their families, their work, and our communities. California's story is one of perseverance and progress, written in large part by Latina women whose labor has fueled our economy and enriched our culture. Yet they continue to earn far less than their peers for the same work. True equity means rewriting that story - one where every woman is paid fairly and can share fully in California's promise. - First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom
"With many families continuing to stretch to make ends meet, we reinforce our commitment to equal pay laws that strengthen the economic security of California families and communities," said Senator Monique Limon. "On Latina Equal Pay Day, I am incredibly proud that Governor Newsom is building upon our pay equity legacy here in California. The Pay Equity Enforcement Act will help narrow the wage gap by providing workers with more negotiation power at the start of their career, while also strengthening workers' rights to recover lost wages - this is a win for workers and an even bigger win for California families."
"California is home to the nation's largest Latina population, yet Latinas here earn just 49 cents for every dollar paid to white men - a disparity that costs them nearly $1 million over a lifetime. This is not just unfair; it is economically unsustainable and morally unacceptable," said Darcy Totten, Executive Director of the California Commission on the Status of Women and Girls. "The Commission has been proud to stand with First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom and state policymakers in advancing pay transparency and equal pay protections, but awareness alone will not close this gap. True economic justice requires structural change, active advocacy, and recognition that our economy is shared...inequality diminishes us all. The Commission's work will not end until every woman in California receives equal pay for equal work."
"The gender wage gap collectively costs Latinas billions in lost wages each year - money that could otherwise go toward rent, groceries, child care, and other essentials that families depend on," said Jessica Ramey Stender, Policy Director & Deputy Legal Director of Equal Rights Advocates. "At a time when the federal government is attacking women's rights and rolling back federal wage protections, California continues to take critical steps to advance pay equity for all. Ensuring Latinas are paid fairly is not only critical for their financial stability, but also for the economic security and well-being of families across the country."
Equaling the playing field for Latinas
Since the launch of the California Equal Pay Pledge in April 2019, hundreds of California-based companies, organizations, and municipalities have signed, reaching hundreds of thousands of employees. Pledge signatories commit to conducting an annual company-wide gender pay analysis, reviewing hiring and promotion processes to reduce unconscious bias, and promoting best practices to help close the pay gap and ensure fundamental equity for all employees.
Building on that progress, the First Partner introduced The Equal Pay Playbook last year, a step-by-step guide that helps employers design and implement data-driven strategies for equitable pay. The Playbook demonstrates that fair pay is beneficial for business, as it helps companies attract and retain top talent, boost innovation, and enhance their reputation.
Closing the gap for all
In the last year, it was estimated that there were fewer women in the workforce than in previous years. With fewer working women, there is also a larger impact on the economy. Fair and equal wages help boost GDP as people are able to spend on goods and services, helping fuel local economies. If the gender pay gap were to be addressed, it could lift up the GDP by 20%. In addition, more people in the workforce means a greater percentage of the population paying taxes to help increase the government's revenue to fund public goods and services, which in turn spurs more economic growth.
Latinas in the United States earn only 54 cents for every dollar earned by white men, one of the widest wage gaps of any demographic group. That gap translates to a loss of about $28,000 each year.
If the wage gap were eliminated, on average, a Latina woman would be able to afford: nearly 33 more months of childcare, more than 16 months of mortgage payments, or secure two additional years of rent. These disparities ripple through generations - limiting access to education, housing, and healthcare, and curbing opportunities for wealth-building and entrepreneurship.
Structural barriers
Latinas are overrepresented in some of the lowest-paid industries - such as agriculture, hospitality, care work, and domestic labor - fields that often lack benefits, protections, and advancement pathways. Additionally, Latinas must work nearly an additional 24 hours a week to reach pay equity.
Immigration status can further constrain women's ability to advocate for fair pay or report workplace violations, while ongoing attacks on immigrant communities have increased economic vulnerability for many Latina workers. Even among college-educated Latinas, pay inequities persist, illustrating that education alone does not close the gap.
Para leer este comunicado en espanol, haga clic aqui.
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Original text here: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2025/10/08/governor-first-partner-mark-latina-equal-pay-day-sign-pay-equity-enforcement-act/
Calif. Gov. Newsom Signs First-in-the-Nation Law to Ban Ultra-Processed Foods From School Lunches
SACRAMENTO, California, Oct. 9 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on Oct. 8, 2025:
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Governor Newsom signs first-in-the-nation law to ban ultra-processed foods from school lunches
What you need to know: Governor Gavin Newsom today signed AB 1264, a first-in-the-nation law phasing out the most concerning ultra-processed foods from California schools.
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LOS ANGELES - Building on California's long-standing leadership to protect children's health and set higher nutrition standards -- from his signature on laws banning dangerous food dyes and chemicals to
... Show Full Article
SACRAMENTO, California, Oct. 9 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on Oct. 8, 2025:
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Governor Newsom signs first-in-the-nation law to ban ultra-processed foods from school lunches
What you need to know: Governor Gavin Newsom today signed AB 1264, a first-in-the-nation law phasing out the most concerning ultra-processed foods from California schools.
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LOS ANGELES - Building on California's long-standing leadership to protect children's health and set higher nutrition standards -- from his signature on laws banning dangerous food dyes and chemicals toimplementing universal school meals -- Governor Gavin Newsom today signed AB 1264 by Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel (D-San Fernando Valley), a bipartisan, first-in-the-nation law providing a statutory definition of ultra-processed foods (UPF). This landmark law will phase out the most concerning ultra-processed foods from school meals in California.
The law is based on a simple, common-sense idea: schools should not serve students products that can harm their health or interfere with their ability to learn.
California has never waited for Washington or anyone else to lead on kids' health -- we've been out front for years, removing harmful additives and improving school nutrition. This first-in-the-nation law builds on that work to make sure every California student has access to healthy, delicious meals that help them thrive. - Governor Gavin Newsom
For too many students, the meals they receive at school are the only ones they can count on in a day, which makes the quality of that food all the more important. By removing the most concerning ultra-processed foods, we're helping children stay nourished, focused, and ready to learn. AB 1264 is the first law of its kind in the nation and builds on California's long record of leading with children's health and well-being at the forefront. While Washington debates how to 'make America healthy again,' they need not look any further than California. - First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom
"With Governor Newsom's signature on AB 1264, California has taken a historic step toward protecting our children from harmful ultra-processed foods and chemical additives," said Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel. "While Washington DC is paralyzed by inaction, California is once again leading the nation with a bipartisan, commonsense, science-based approach. Here in the Golden State, Democrats and Republicans are joining forces to ensure that students are receiving healthy, nutritious meals that are made from real foods, not harmful chemical additives. I applaud Governor Newsom for his continued leadership on food safety and I am grateful to the dedicated advocates from around the country who worked tirelessly to help us pass this important new law."
California's work to promote healthier school food long predates the national "Make America Healthy Again" movement. Since taking office, Governor Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom have advanced a series of first-in-the-nation reforms to eliminate toxic additives, strengthen nutrition standards, and expand healthy food access in schools statewide.
California leads the nation in protecting student health, ensuring access to food
* In January, Governor Newsom signed an executive order directing state agencies to recommend potential actions to limit the harms associated with "ultra-processed foods" and food ingredients that pose a health risk to individuals. This bill aligns with the Executive Order.
* Governor Newsom previously signed AB 418 (Asm. Gabriel, 2023) and AB 2316 (Gabriel, 2024), banning four potentially harmful chemical food additives from products sold statewide, including red dye 3 and brominated vegetable oil, which is often used as a stabilizer in citrus-flavored beverages, and prohibiting schools from serving and selling foods containing synthetic food dye additives associated with risks to health harms in children, including cancer, damage to the immune system, and neurobehavioral issues. The federal government and numerous states have taken similar actions following CA's lead.
* In 2024, Governor Newsom signed a legislative package to increase enrollment in state food assistance programs, reduce youth consumption of processed foods, and increase access to healthy, locally grown food in all California communities.
* This summer, more than 4 million California children received SUN Bucks food benefits via EBT cards, with each eligible child receiving $120 in food benefits.
* California was the first state to implement a statewide Universal Meals Program for schoolchildren, providing all public TK-12 students access to two free meals per school day, regardless of income. California's Farm to School program, championed by First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom, works in tandem with Universal School Meals to ensure California students have access to two free school meals that are locally-sourced, delicious, and nutritious.
* In 2023, California became the first state to codify President Biden's new federal guidelines on school nutrition standards to reduce sugar and salt in school meals, and established a process for California to maintain those standards should a different federal Administration lower the standards.
Why this matters
In July 2025, the federal Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reported that 32.7 percent of children and youth between 12 and 19 years old are prediabetic. The National Institute of Health and the CDC has also identified the link between healthy eating and lowering an individual's risk for heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and other chronic health conditions.
Additionally, under Governor Newsom, California has continued:
* A long-standing ban on sodas on K-12 campuses;
* Restrictions on caffeine at any grade level, while federal standards allow caffeine in high schools;
* A requirement that entrees be sold on the same day or day after they appear on the menu to meet standards for calories, total fat, and trans-fat, while federal standards allow these to be sold without meeting any nutrition standards.
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Original text here: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2025/10/08/governor-newsom-signs-first-in-the-nation-law-to-ban-ultra-processed-foods-from-school-lunches/
Calif. Gov. Newsom Signs Data Privacy Bills to Protect Tech Users
SACRAMENTO, California, Oct. 9 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on Oct. 8, 2025:
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Governor Newsom signs data privacy bills to protect tech users
What you need to know: Governor Newsom signed AB 656, which requires social media companies to make it clear and easy for a user to delete their account - and requires that deletion also trigger full deletion of the user's personal data. This law builds on the administration's prior work to protect consumers and their privacy.
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Today, as San Francisco Tech Week 2025 continues, Governor Gavin Newsom signed
... Show Full Article
SACRAMENTO, California, Oct. 9 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on Oct. 8, 2025:
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Governor Newsom signs data privacy bills to protect tech users
What you need to know: Governor Newsom signed AB 656, which requires social media companies to make it clear and easy for a user to delete their account - and requires that deletion also trigger full deletion of the user's personal data. This law builds on the administration's prior work to protect consumers and their privacy.
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Today, as San Francisco Tech Week 2025 continues, Governor Gavin Newsom signedAB 656 by Assemblymember Pilar Schiavo (D-Santa Clarita), requiring social media companies to make canceling an account straightforward and clear - and ensuring that cancellation triggers full deletion of the user's personal data. The Governor also signed additional laws to help strengthen California's landmark privacy protections and ensure that consumers have transparent and fair ways to control their own data.
"It shouldn't be hard to delete social media accounts, and it shouldn't be even harder to take back control of personal data. With these bills, social media users can be assured that when they delete their accounts, they do not leave their data behind." - Governor Gavin Newsom
"Social media users deserve to have the confidence that they can easily delete their account and when they do that their personal information is deleted too," said Assemblymember Pilar Schiavo. "I'm grateful that with the signing of AB 656, California is putting consumers first."
These laws build on the Governor's prior work to protect consumers and their privacy. That includes last year's Click to Cancel bill, AB 2863 by Assemblymember Schiavo, that made it easier to cancel subscriptions, and 2023's SB 362 by Senator Josh Becker, the DELETE Act, which, beginning in August 2026, will allow Californians to delete all of their data held by data brokers through a single interface.
Giving consumers more control of their data
Governor Newsom also signed two additional bills to help consumers maintain better control of their data:
* SB 361 by Senator Josh Becker, which strengthens the Data Broker Registration Law by providing consumers with more information about the personal information collected by data brokers and who may have access to consumers' data.
* AB 566 by Assemblymember Josh Lowenthal, which helps consumers exercise their opt-out rights under the California Consumer Privacy Act by requiring browsers to include a setting to send websites an opt-out preference signal to enable Californians to opt out of third-party sales of their data at one time instead of on each individual website.
Strengthening consumer protection
Other consumer protection bills signed this year include legislation to strengthen the authority of the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation, thereby helping fill the void left by the Trump administration's weakening of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau; to protect car buyers from being sold unnecessary add-ons; and to ensure state antitrust law can address pricing algorithms, among other laws to keep services and products affordable and fair.
In November 2020, voters approved the California Privacy Rights Act that added new privacy protections to the California Consumer Privacy Act of 2018, and established a new agency, the California Privacy Protection Agency (CPPA), to implement and enforce the laws.
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Original text here: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2025/10/08/governor-newsom-signs-data-privacy-bills-to-protect-tech-users/
Calif. Gov. Newsom Announces $30 Million in Apprenticeship Funding to Fill High-demand Jobs in Health Care, Education, and Technology
SACRAMENTO, California, Oct. 9 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on Oct. 8, 2025:
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Governor Newsom announces $30 million in apprenticeship funding to fill high-demand jobs in health care, education, and technology
What you need to know: More than 11,000 Californians to have access to debt-free pathways into high-demand careers that offer family-sustaining wages, opening doors to long-term economic mobility and opportunity across the state.
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Governor Gavin Newsom today announced $30 million in awards benefiting 70 apprenticeship programs and more than
... Show Full Article
SACRAMENTO, California, Oct. 9 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on Oct. 8, 2025:
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Governor Newsom announces $30 million in apprenticeship funding to fill high-demand jobs in health care, education, and technology
What you need to know: More than 11,000 Californians to have access to debt-free pathways into high-demand careers that offer family-sustaining wages, opening doors to long-term economic mobility and opportunity across the state.
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Governor Gavin Newsom today announced $30 million in awards benefiting 70 apprenticeship programs and more than11,000 apprentices, earning an average of $50.29 per hour, in non-traditional sectors, including health care, education, and advanced manufacturing. This is the third round of Apprenticeship Innovation Funding (AIF) through the Department of Industrial Relations and its Division of Apprenticeship Standards (DAS) -- a key investment in growing and sustaining apprenticeship programs in California.
"In California, we're building a workforce that reflects our values, one where opportunity and job training are within reach for everyone. These apprenticeships are connecting Californians to good-paying careers while helping meet the growing demand for skilled talent across the state." -Governor Gavin Newsom
"Apprenticeships offer real, hands-on experience and a pathway to economic mobility without the burden of debt," said Stewart Knox, Secretary of the California Labor and Workforce Development Agency. "Through investments like Apprenticeship Innovation Funding, we're expanding opportunity, strengthening our workforce and supporting the industries that keep our state moving."
California has the largest apprenticeship system in the nation and is addressing workforce needs by building a pipeline of skilled workers through on-the-job training programs. Apprenticeships offer numerous benefits, including addressing labor shortages, improving workforce retention, and enabling employers to design training tailored to their industry needs.
More jobs. more opportunities.
Apprenticeships are central to the Jobs First Initiative, the state's strategy to grow industries by leveraging the unique strengths of each region. Apprenticeship programs also align with several of California's strategic sectors highlighted in the state's Economic Blueprint including the high-tech, aerospace, healthcare, and education sectors.
Governor Gavin Newsom has set a goal of serving 500,000 earn-and-learn apprentices by 2029. Through strategic investments like AIF, the Department of Apprenticeship Standards has already served 227,492 apprentices toward that target.
"By funding apprenticeships, we're opening doors for thousands of Californians to pursue debt-free pathways toward long-term professional careers." said DAS Chief Adele Burnes. "This round of AIF is supporting more than 11,000 apprentices who are earning an average of $50.29 per hour. These programs provide real economic mobility, and we are seeing apprentices enter stable careers that provide family-sustaining wages."
During the first and second rounds of AIF, a total of $42.1 million was allocated to apprenticeship programs. During this round, awardees are utilizing AIF to scale their apprenticeship programs and address urgent workforce needs.
Awardee highlights:
* Early Care & Education Pathways to Success (ECEPTS) received $1.4 million to expand its apprenticeship program for early care providers and teachers' aides. Apprentices gain professional development experience at early childcare centers such as Head Start and work directly with children. Along with hands-on training, apprentices participate in classroom instruction, studying industry-focused curriculum for teaching and childcare credentials. The program primarily serves low-income women who face economic barriers, setting them on a path to meaningful, stable careers. The program grew from 158 apprentices in round one to 327 in round two, and 658 in round three.
* Launch received $1.4 million to support apprenticeship programs that focus on healthcare, information technology, and advanced manufacturing. Apprentices gain paid on-the-job training at employer sites and earn college credit through coursework at schools and community colleges. Medical Assistant and Registered Nurse apprenticeships are examples of newer occupations supported by Launch. Launch is an intermediary that connects employers and educators to design, manage, and scale apprenticeship programs. The program grew from 360 apprentices in round one, to 386 in round two, and 534 in round three.
* Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority JATC received $951,625 to expand its public transit apprenticeship program. Apprentices gain on-the-job training with simulator exercises in the field. During classroom instruction, apprentices work toward earning industry-recognized certifications. The Santa Clara Valley Transit faced recruitment challenges, and implemented the program to recruit and retain workers.The program grew from 80 apprentices in round one, to 258 in round two, and 321 in round three.
* SLO Partners Apprenticeships received $237,750 to expand numerous apprenticeship programs, including one in software development. Apprentices learn about computer applications and systems while attending a training bootcamp. They also receive one year of paid on-the-job training. The program is in partnership with Fullstack Academy and Cal Poly Extended Education Coding Bootcamp. The program grew from 52 apprentices in round one, to 56 in round two, and 88 in round three.
A nationwide model
Since AIF's launch in 2021, non-traditional registered apprenticeships in California have grown by 76%. The fastest-growing sectors include education, advanced manufacturing, and transportation.
AIF has become a model for other states. For example, Maryland recently passed the Registered Apprenticeship Investments for a Stronger Economy (RAISE) Act of 2025, modeled in part after California's program.
AIF aligns with California's Five-Point Action Plan, which guides DAS in expanding innovative apprenticeship programs and partnering with intermediaries such as unions, workforce development boards, educational institutions, and nonprofits.
AIF is formula-based funding that reimburses apprenticeship programs based on the number of apprentices served in the prior calendar year. The funding supports two core areas:
* Training Funding: Develops new training programs to benefit apprentices.
* Support Funding: Covers costs of running an apprenticeship program, including employer coordination, recruitment, support, and apprentice placement.
Creating career pathways
Governor Newsom's Master Plan for Career Education is devoted to expanding youth apprenticeships by enhancing career pathways in high school, strengthening workforce training for young people, and bolstering regional partnerships in communities. It also addresses removing barriers for opportunity youth seeking ways to gain skills before having obtained a college degree.
In alignment with Governor Newsom's plan, LWDA has expanded apprenticeships and earn and learn opportunities to provide more Californians with a pathway to a good-paying job. These investments include:
* $68 million in funding to boost apprenticeship programs, create new jobs, and fill labor shortages;
* $26 million to recruit more women into construction careers;
* $20 million in construction apprenticeships to meet infrastructure needs;
* $15.4 million to connect opportunity youth with pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship programs in high-demand fields;
* $10 million for programs that help farmworkers adjust to the ever-changing demands of the farming industry, providing access to education, career services, and training;
* $18.6 million available to increase equitable access to High Road jobs, with $4.3 million earmarked for healthcare sector projects; and
* $80 million in California Jobs First funding for projects that will create 23,000 new jobs.
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Original text here: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2025/10/08/governor-newsom-announces-30-million-in-apprenticeship-funding-to-fill-high-demand-jobs-in-health-care-education-and-technology/
