Ronda Deplazes thought Gov. Newsom’s CARE Court could save her son as he struggled with mental illness. Two years later, she and other families say little has changed for them.

(Subscription required) Citing improper treatment of court staff, unauthorized courtroom rules, and violations of litigants' rights, the Commission on Judicial Performance publicly admonished Tulare County Superior Court Judge Robin L. Wolfe.

A growing number of calls to the CPS hotline prompt a referral to a food bank or homeless shelter — instead of a social worker investigation. Public hospitals no longer report new moms for using drugs. And parents accused of abuse or neglect receive legal assistance well before their cases land in dependency court.

Closing arguments wrapped up Wednesday in the federal case that will determine whether California uses its new Proposition 50 redistricting map in the 2026 midterms. Republicans argue the map constitutes racial gerrymandering that illegally favors Latino voters. Democrats say their motivation is purely partisan. If approved for 2026, the new map could give Democrats up to five additional House seats and reshape the national congressional balance of power.