California Today: House Votes to Block California’s Plan to Ban New Gas-Powered Cars

May 2, 2025, 9:31 a.m. Eastern time

Good morning. Here are the top stories from across California.

Today’s Top Story

Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

House Votes to Block California’s Plan to Ban New Gas-Powered Cars

Republicans, joined by a handful of Democrats, voted to eliminate California’s electric vehicle policy, which had been adopted by 11 other states.

House Votes to Repeal California’s Clean Truck Policies

Lawmakers voted to stop the state from requiring that an increasing share of new trucks sold there have zero emissions.

Can California Set Its Own Air Pollution Rules?

This week, the House of Representatives voted to block the state’s ban on the sale of new gas-powered vehicles, challenging its rule-making authority.

Trump Policies Draw Outrage at May Day Protests Across the U.S.

Labor rallies in large cities swelled with demonstrators focused on immigration, education and worker’s rights. But protesters also rallied at small-town schools and city halls in Trump country.

Back to the Future of Transit

How high-speed rail went off track in the U.S., and where it’s finally coming to fruition.

Ronan the Sea Lion Is Probably Better Than You at Keeping a Beat

As she has aged, the pinniped’s rhythmic abilities have only improved.

Seven Roles That Explain the Deeply Nuanced, Not Crazy Art of Nicolas Cage

Don’t reduce his career to his unhinged characters. The actor’s work is often more textured and soulful than he’s given credit for.

Harris Returns to Political Life, Warning of a Constitutional Crisis

Kamala Harris has rarely spoken out after leaving Washington in January. In her first major address since then, she acknowledged Democratic fears and praised leaders who were speaking out.

What Green Card Holders Should Know in Preparing to Travel Outside the U.S.

The Trump administration’s sweeping immigration restrictions have legal permanent residents concerned about their status. Some lawyers said they’re right to be worried.

Local Conditions

Look up the heat index in your area using The Times’s heat tracker.

See active fires using The Times’s wildfire tracker.

Today's Recipe

David Malosh for The New York Times. Food Stylist: Rebecca Jurkevich.

Benedictine

By Regina Schrambling

15 minutes, plus 30 minutes’ chilling

Makes About 2 cups

Take a break, play a game

Wordle →

Connections →

Strands →

Spelling Bee →

Crossword →

Mini →

Get notified about extreme weather before it happens with custom alerts for places in the U.S. you choose.

Get it in your inbox

Need help? Review our newsletter help page or contact us for assistance.

You received this email because you signed up for California Today from The New York Times.

To stop receiving California Today, unsubscribe. To opt out of other promotional emails from The Times, including those regarding The Athletic, manage your email settings. To opt out of updates and offers sent from The Athletic, submit a request.

Subscribe to The Times Get The New York Times app

Connect with us on: