RCRC press releases and related news clips about RCRC and our member counties. Please note that a subscription may be required to read some external publications.
What’s in Store for California’s Economy? – Public Policy Institute of California
California starts 2024 with a robust economy, adding 260,000 jobs in the past year. Job openings remain high, inflation is lower at 3%, but wages struggle to keep pace, increasing only 15% since Feb 2020, while prices rose by 19%. Two-thirds of Californians anticipate economic downturns, highlighting concerns about personal finances. To improve economic prospects, the state should focus on education, supporting hiring, monitoring workforce changes due to climate and technology, and addressing economic constraints for sustained growth and mobility.
Federal fix for rural hospitals gets few takers so far – Capital Public Radio
The federal Rural Emergency Hospital program aims to revive closed rural hospitals by offering financial incentives for providing emergency and outpatient services while discontinuing inpatient care. However, only 18 of 1,700 eligible rural hospitals have applied, with hesitancy to give up inpatient services. Challenges include an unclear definition of "rural," and advocates are working on modifications to allow for options such as retaining overnight beds for moderate care. The success of the program may impact struggling rural hospitals nationwide.
Padilla Announces $88 Million in New Funding to Electrify California School Buses – Senator Alex Padilla
Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) announces $88 million in funding from the EPA's Clean School Bus Program to purchase electric buses in California. The program, established by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, supports the transition to zero-emission and low-emission school buses. Over 400,000 buses, covering 4.3 billion miles annually for 23.5 million students, will benefit. Padilla emphasizes the health and environmental advantages, pushing for modernization. Padilla has been a strong advocate for transitioning diesel-powered buses to zero-emission vehicles.