California Lawmakers Begin Session to Counter Trump Policies

State Legislature opens with special session focused on deportation protections, abortion access, and affordability concerns.

California's new legislative session includes a special session initiated by Gov. Gavin Newsom to prepare for challenges posed by Donald Trump's incoming presidency.
Protesters rallied at the Capitol, urging action to protect immigrants from mass deportation and calling for limits on state cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.
Initial bills introduced include funding for deportation legal services, adjustments to election certification processes, and measures addressing gas prices and reparations-related admissions policies.
Legislators approved a reduction in the number of bills each member can introduce, aiming to improve the vetting and debate process during the session.
Proposals to protect abortion access were introduced, including penalties for local governments blocking clinics and shielding providers of abortion pills from liability.