In this episode of Coffee, Culture, and the Capitol, Sophia Lorey and Greg Burt tackle three critical topics shaping California’s future.

They begin by unpacking Snopes’ recent coverage of AB 495, which dismissed concerns about custody and child protection as “false.” Sophia and Greg break down the bill’s text, address the so-called fact-check head-on, and explain why the truth matters—especially when it comes to safeguarding children.

Next, they turn to a practical action step for parents: public school opt-out forms. Highlighting resources from Pacific Justice Institute (https://pacificjustice.org/resources/for-parents/public-school-opt-out-forms/), Informed Parents of California (https://www.ip-ca.org/), Advocates for Faith & Freedom https://faith-freedom.com/parental-opt-out/, and the National Center for Law & Policy (https://drive.google.com/file/d/1RGR2YtZiM6wp5yhZJsxdybOaEz_mwm4R/view?usp=drive_link), they explain how moms and dads can legally and effectively opt their kids out of inappropriate curriculum, uphold their family’s values, and protect parental rights in the public school system.

Finally, the conversation shifts to SB 403—Senator Catherine Blakespear’s bill to remove the 2031 “sunset clause” from California’s assisted suicide law, making it permanent. Sophia and Greg reveal how this so-called technical change is actually a strategic move toward expanding state-sanctioned death, eroding safeguards, and endangering the most vulnerable.

From fact-checking the fact-checkers, to equipping parents, to defending the sanctity of life, Sophia and Greg deliver a bold, truth-filled conversation you won’t hear anywhere else. final