Central Valley Daily

A bipartisan group of state lawmakers has introduced 10 new laws designed to strengthen consequences for California’s most dangerous drivers. The laws are inspired in part by reporting from our news partner CalMatters. On today’s episode, investigative reporter Robert Lewis explains how his series, “License to Kill,” is inspiring change at the Capitol. Plus, the latest news headlines: Yosemite does away with daily reservations; and Tehachapi celebrates a new medical residency program to bring in more doctors.

In 2022, KVPR brought you a series of investigative stories highlighting a health crisis in Kern County - specifically, that mothers and babies were dying there at a higher rate than in the rest of the state. Now, almost four years later, has pregnancy-related health improved? KVPR’s Kerry Klein discusses new data and developments from the region. Plus, the latest news headlines: California’s attorney general challenges a diversion given to a former Kern County supervisor, and why the High Speed Rail Authority CEO is on leave.

Several Democratic candidates are vying to replace Republican Rep. David Valadao in the newly redrawn congressional district 22. On today’s episode, Maya C. Miller with our news partner CalMatters breaks down the strategy of two first-time congressional candidates hoping to turn the district blue. Plus, the latest news headlines: a second group attempts to reboot a transportation tax in Fresno County, and a Catholic Bishop holds mass at Kern County ICE facility.

In light of violent immigration enforcement in major cities like Chicago, Los Angeles, and Minneapolis, immigrants around the country are wondering: could this happen in my community? KVPR Associate Editor Kerry Klein reports on fear and misinformation among immigrant communities in the San Joaquin Valley.

In 1948, a plane carrying mostly Mexican farm laborers crashed near Coalinga, killing all on board. When first reported, a local paper only referred to the laborers as “deportees.” Decades later, Tim Z. Hernandez set out to find their names and connect with their families. Today, we revisit our conversation with Hernandez, who discusses his book that remembers the crash victims.

School enrollment has been declining in California, yet more students are qualifying for special education. On today’s episode, Emma Gallegos with our news partner Ed Source explains how this phenomenon is playing out in one Kern County school district and how the state may help. Plus, the latest news headlines: Clovis police threaten charges for adults in student protests, and a Fresno church holds a “holy hour.”

The climate patterns known as “La Niña” and “El Niño” have long been used as predictors of how cold and wet a winter season is likely to be. But their definitions are changing. Meteorologist Anthony Edwards of the San Francisco Chronicle tells us why and what to expect from weather forecasts moving forward. Plus, the latest news headlines: Cases of tuberculosis rose in Fresno and Merced counties since the pandemic, and a new bill seeks to protect veterans from the predatory claims process.

The City of Fresno has terminated its contract with the Fresno Arts Council. This comes as local and federal law enforcement investigate a former employee who allegedly embezzled $1.5 million. On today’s episode, Omar Rashad, with our news partner Fresnoland, breaks down what we know so far. Plus, the latest news headlines: Clovis considers adding “In God We Trust” in city council chambers, and the World Ag Expo is in full swing in Tulare.

Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer recently issued a critique of federal immigration actions that he says are eroding public trust. His comments were made at the U.S. Conference of Mayors. On today’s episode, Dyer explains why he felt compelled to speak out and how his law enforcement background shapes his views on public safety. Plus, the latest news headlines: A criminal investigation is underway into the Fresno Arts Council, and Valley health leaders issue a warning about Medicaid cuts.

The federal government is cracking down on commercial driver's licenses after recent fatal crashes involved truck drivers without legal status. On today's episode, journalist Gagandeep Singh explains how this impacts Central California's Sikh community, many of whom are truck drivers.