Don Thompson / Associated Press

The thicker, reusable plastic bags that many retailers now use may not be recyclable as required by law. Attorney General Rob Bonta asked six bag manufacturers to back up their claims the bags can be recycled, and is threatening legal action that could include banning their use or issuing fines.

There’s plenty of drama in legislative races coming to a head between Democrats and Republicans on Tuesday. But there is little chance that Democrats will lose the overwhelming majorities that allow them to virtually ignore Republicans in the California Legislature.

The law gives farmworkers new options to vote to unionize beyond at physical polling places. Proponents say it will help protect workers from union-busting and other intimidation.

The Senate approved the measure on a 21-12 vote, with no votes to spare and over bipartisan opposition. That sends it to the Assembly for final action before lawmakers adjourn on Wednesday.

The last of three men convicted in the notorious Chowchilla bus kidnapping has been granted parole. 70-year old Frederick Woods will be released by the state parole board, despite a request from Governor Newsom to reconsider.

Gov. Newsom signed a gun control law Friday that's patterned after a Texas law allowing citizens to sue anyone who provides or assists in providing an abortion.