It’s the worst mass shooting in Northern California history, ten people dead at a light rail yard in San Jose. One day later, lawmakers say something has to be done to stem the rising tide of gun violence.

There’s also been a dramatic spike in sales of guns. In cases of gun violence, Since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, in cases of gun violence, the number of mass shootings in America has risen exponentially this year.

After each of these shootings, we see a hand-wringing, condemnation and sorrow, lots of thoughts and prayers, but no new federal legislation, which leaves states to act on their own.

As it is, California already has the toughest gun control laws in the nation, and now two Bay Area state legislators want to take another step.

For more, KCBS political Reporter Doug Sovern, and KCBS Radio Anchors Jeff Bell and Patti Reising spoke with Assemblyman Marc Levine of San Rafael to discuss the co-authored AB1223 bill that would slap an excise tax on new sales of guns and ammunition, intended originally to help pay for gun violence prevention programs. 

As we’ve been reporting, 9 people were killed this morning in a shooting at a VTA light rail yard in San Jose, where police say an employee killed eight people before ending his own life.

This is the worst mass shooting in the Bay Area since the 101 California Street massacre in San Francisco, 28 years ago.

And for more, KCSB political Reporter Doug Sovern, and KCBS Radio Anchors Jeff Bell and Patti Reising spoke with California State Assemblyman Ash Kalra of San Jose; he represents much of San Jose and is the former Chair of the VTA Board.

As Congressional Republicans debate the direction of the party, California’s Democratic Party is also in the midst of a generational shift. A younger, more diverse party base is shifting California Democrats in a more progressive direction. It’s a shift that is sure to have have an impact as the state’s representation in Washington in the years to come.

For more KCBS Radio news anchors Jeff Bell and Patti Reising spoke with KCBS Radio reporter Mike DeWald spoke with Jack Pitney, Professor of Politics at Claremont McKenna College.

State and local leaders continue to prepare for what’s sure to be a hot and dry summer with the continued threat of a drought in many areas around the state. Some cities and counties have begun to recommending resident voluntarily cut back on water supplies. The issue is quickly gaining national attention from lawmakers as well.

To discuss further, KCBS Radio Anchors Jeff Bell and Patti, and KCBS Radio Reporter Mike DeWald spoke with North Bay Congressman Jared Huffman.