California’s Senate Bill 79, known as the Abundant and Affordable Homes Near Transit Act, was signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom in 2025 and takes effect July 1, 2026. The law overrides certain local zoning rules to allow higher density housing near major transit stops. Supporters call it essential to fixing the housing shortage. Opponents say it guts local control and risks displacement.

The Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT) pulled a set of public service announcement videos urging riders to report bad behavior — including people defecating on city buses — after they were published on the agency’s website and YouTube. LADOT says the spots were meant only for onboard screens to educate riders about reporting misconduct (like pooping on the bus), not broad public distribution. 

Potholes across Los Angeles have become a growing frustration for drivers, with residents reporting vehicle damage and slow repair turnaround times. According to KTLA, Mayor Karen Bass joined city crews in street repair efforts, highlighting the issue amid complaints about road conditions and infrastructure strain. The city says crews are working to address thousands of reported potholes following recent storms and normal wear.

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The nonpartisan Tax Foundation published a report in February with similar findings: Tariffs created an average tax increase per U.S. household of $1,000 in 2025 and are expected to lead to an increase of $1,300 for 2026.  Alex Durante, senior economist at the Tax Foundation, joins the show to talk about it.

The U.S. Supreme Court struck down most of the broad tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), concluding the president lacked authority to levy sweeping trade duties without clear congressional authorization. The ruling has the potential to ease some trade frictions and provide relief to Southern California’s port-centric economy, but it also leaves uncertainty about refunds, future trade policy and how markets will adjust. Trade partners, local businesses and global markets are all reacting to the unexpected shift.

Mexican security forces killed Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes — known as “El Mencho” — the founder and leader of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), in a military operation in Jalisco state. The takedown is considered one of the most significant blows to organized crime in decades, but it immediately sparked lethal retaliation and nationwide unrest. Authorities and analysts warn that a power vacuum could lead to further violence and insecurity. Our own Jesse Blackburn is currently stuck in Puerto Vallarta, which explains why he didn't show up for work today. He joined the show earlier to talk about his experiences down there so far.

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Monks and Merrill Hour 1 [Best Of] (02/21) - Monks and Merrill want a little more of an introductory of themselves for the audience. Let's get to know them! Plus, LA is unaffordable for homebuyers. Also, a blackjack bust.

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Monks and Merrill Hour 2 [Best Of] (02/21) - Edison is making Eaton fire victims pay. The crime rate is going down and we talk about safe golf courses.

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Monks and Merrill Hour 1 (02/20) - We begin the show talking about the Hollywood reset and the Warner Bros deal, as production still remains low. Even Los Angeles "can't afford" to be in Los Angeles. Can you even operate the industry that made California what it is? Hollywood isn't Hollywood anymore - the below the line workers are hit hardest. KFI's Heather Brooker joins the show to tell more. Plus, another Writers Guild strike is on the horizon.

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Monks and Merrill Hour 2 (02/20) - LA recorded its second annual budget deficit. Plus, sixth street bridge problems. More money for the homeless problem, and there is nothing to show for it.

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Monks and Merrill Hour 3 (02/20) - ABC News legal analyst Royal Oaks joins the show to talk about the Trump Tariff Problems. SCOTUS says Trump's tariffs are illegal. How much have tariffs been costing you? Tariff refund frenzy and changes - don't expect prices to change much.

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Monks and Merrill Hour 1 (02/19) - LAPD formally urges middle and high school students to stay in class instead of walking out to protest ICE. LAUSD is struggling to retaining students to begin with, and layoffs are looming.

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Monks and Merrill Hour 2 (02/19) - California cardrooms brace for layoffs amid new rules, huge impacts to jobs and local communities; listen to how, when President  of the CA Gaming Association Kyle Kirkland joins the show. Also, Tom Steyer wants a special election in 2027. Bernie Sanders VS The Billionaires and Gavin Newsom, plus, a Roblox reckoning.

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Monks and Merrill Hour 3 (02/19) - We go over The Great Catalina Deer Massacre and why it's increasing wildfire risk. ABC News legal analyst Royal Oaks joins the show to talk about former Prince Andrew's arrest this morning, which just so happen to also be his birthday.

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