Hoping this email reaches you before you log off for some 4th of July holiday fun. Here’s some key news and tips for making the most of Independence Day as a Californian.

• Governor Newsom signs PAGA reform (and we are elated)
• SCOTUS ruling will change how California cities tackle homelessness

🤫 Everything you should know

- Governor Newsom struck a deal that will lead to significant PAGA reform. The Governor has signed AB 2288 and the proponents of the PAGA ballot initiative have withdrawn their ballot measure. According to the Governor’s office the reform will create a new penalty structure that encourages compliance and creates higher penalties for malicious employers; will reduce litigation while also protecting small employers; will allow for more remedies with injunctive relief; limit standing in cases; and will strengthen state enforcement. At the bill signing the Governor said “Is a big win for both workers and businesses. It streamlines the current system, improves worker protections, and makes it easier for businesses to operate.” This is an important reform but it is also a reminder that we work together to solve complex problems. What do you think needs to be tackled next? Governor Newsom

- In a 6-3 decision the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that cities can fine or arrest homeless people. The ruling will allow cities to more easily clear or ban homeless encampments. For years municipalities have been relying on unclear and varying interpretations of texts from lower courts. This new ruling will allow encampments to be cleared with fewer legal battles and will give cities more tools to tackle the staggering growth in homelessness. The ruling was positively received by many across the political spectrum with both Governor Gavin Newsom and Republican Representative Kevin Kiley supporting the decision. SacBee

🎆 What to do this weekend

Your one-stop guide for legal fireworks displays across the state. Fourth of July celebrations are still happening.

🏠 Climate change calls for MORE housing on the coast, not less

Raag Agrawal in Westwood, CA calls out NIMBYs who have blocked housing in desirable, temperate enclaves of California, saying “I love that we banned new housing on the thin strip of coastal land that is temperate year-round, and instead are building greenfield suburbs in Bakersfield which is 100+F. Thanks California Coastal Commission and local zoning!”