Tom Umberg
Coverage of Tom Umberg in the Nexus archive.
- California lawmaker rolls back new public records barriers after fierce opposition
California lawmaker Blanca Pacheco revised her bill to amend public records rules after facing opposition, removing high fees and court-based barriers for commercial requests. The current version of Assembly Bill 1821 extends response times for agencies but no longer includes provisions for increased costs or judicial reviews of request intent.
- The Board of Equalization has little power. Campaign donors still spent millions on it
The Board of Equalization, a California tax commission with minimal responsibilities, received over $3.3 million in campaign donations from lobbying groups and individuals, despite its reduced role. Donors supported lawmakers running for the board to maintain legislative influence and reward past support, with major contributions coming from labor unions and professional groups.
- Newsom signs election safeguard bill, expecting ‘the worst with Trump'
Governor Gavin Newsom signed State Senate Bill 73 to protect California’s elections by making it illegal to seize ballots or interfere with voting processes. The bill, introduced by Senators Tom Umberg and Sabrina Cervantes, targets potential voter intimidation linked to the Trump administration and prohibits unauthorized law enforcement presence at polling stations.
- California may let Linux bypass age check
California's Digital Age Assurance Act (AB 1043) may exempt open-source operating systems like Linux and FreeBSD from age verification requirements. Proposed amendments, including AB 1856, define 'open source' to exclude entities requiring age checks, potentially freeing Linux vendors from compliance. The Electronic Frontier Foundation and others criticize the law for stifling digital liberties and entrenching major OS providers.
- There’s no longer a risk of explosion from a damaged California chemical tank. Here’s what to know
A damaged chemical tank at GKN Aerospace in Garden Grove, California, containing methyl methacrylate, overheated and vented vapors, prompting a large-scale evacuation. Authorities confirmed the risk of explosion has been eliminated due to a crack relieving pressure, with no leaks or injuries reported.
- Southern California officials trying to prevent explosion or leak from damaged chemical tank
A damaged chemical tank containing methyl methacrylate in Garden Grove, California, overheated and vented vapors, prompting evacuations of 50,000 residents. Authorities are cooling the tank to prevent an explosion, with efforts including water spraying and drone monitoring. A crack in the tank has reduced blast risks, but officials remain cautious.