Hate crimes in California surged 31% in 2020, fueled mainly by a big jump in crimes targeting Black people. According to the state attorney general's office, crimes targeting members of the Asian community also surged during the pandemic.

Los Angeles has had a 50% spike in shootings in the first six months of 2021 compared to last year. Several other cities have also seen a spike in shootings. One group that’s trying to stop the violence from getting worse is the Urban Peace Institute, which trains people in the community to de-escalate tensions.

Guest: Fernando Rejon, Director of the Urban Peace Institute in Los Angeles

The Lava Fire burning in far northern California has grown to nearly 20,000 acres. Fire crews are facing challenging conditions with extremely hot weather continuing for at least a few more days.

Guest: Scott Rodd, CapRadio

California’s COVID-19 test positivity rate has inched up in recent weeks. The number is still very low compared to what the state saw during the height of the pandemic, but there is some concern about unvaccinated people being infected with the Delta variant. 

Reporter: Laura Klivans, KQED

Starting Thursday, Californians with outstanding student loans have new rights and protections. A law signed last year creates an ombudsman to oversee the student loan industry and help borrowers navigate the new regulations aimed at holding loan companies accountable. 

Reporter: Scott Shafer, KQED

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