Sameea Kamal at CalMatters

Another coronavirus variant spreading like wildfire, and another huge state budget surplus: In some ways, 2022 is off to a similar start as 2021.&nbsp;

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Another coronavirus variant spreading like wildfire, and another huge state budget surplus: In some ways, 2022 is off to a similar start as 2021.&nbsp;

That could carry over to the state Legislature’s new session starting today. In addition to the pandemic and surplus, California is dealing with some of the same big issues it has long grappled with, including housing and climate change.&nbsp;

That could carry over to the state Legislature’s new session starting today. In addition to the pandemic and surplus, California is dealing with some of the same big issues it has long grappled with, including housing and climate change.&nbsp;

“Our challenges continue to be the challenges that we have started and built momentum to work towards,” Senate President Pro Tem Toni Atkins, a San Diego Democrat, told CalMatters.&nbsp;

“Our challenges continue to be the challenges that we have started and built momentum to work towards,” Senate President Pro Tem Toni Atkins, a San Diego Democrat, told CalMatters.&nbsp;

The difference? Looking at key issues more through a lens of equity, she said.

The difference? Looking at key issues more through a lens of equity, she said.

The state Assembly’s agenda shares those priorities, said Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon, a Lakewood Democrat. Access to health care will be another focus: “We’re proud of where we are as a state, but we need to make sure that everybody in the state is covered.”&nbsp;

The state Assembly’s agenda shares those priorities, said Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon, a Lakewood Democrat. Access to health care will be another focus: “We’re proud of where we are as a state, but we need to make sure that everybody in the state is covered.”&nbsp;

Where will things look a little different? The state Capitol complex is undergoing renovations, which means the “<a href="https://www.sacbee.com/news/politics-government/capitol-alert/article255966717.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bacteria Bear</a>” is safely in storage for now.

Where will things look a little different? The state Capitol complex is undergoing renovations, which means the “<a href="https://www.sacbee.com/news/politics-government/capitol-alert/article255966717.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bacteria Bear</a>” is safely in storage for now.

The public and press will be allowed to attend in person, but due to COVID, access and seating will continue to be limited,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.ca.gov/pdfpublications/dailyfile">masks and social distancing will be required</a>&nbsp;and meetings will continue to be livestreamed. “We had hoped that as we go back, we’d be through the pandemic, but it hasn’t gone away,” Atkins said. “We’re going to have to continue to bear that in mind.”

The public and press will be allowed to attend in person, but due to COVID, access and seating will continue to be limited,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.ca.gov/pdfpublications/dailyfile">masks and social distancing will be required</a>&nbsp;and meetings will continue to be livestreamed. “We had hoped that as we go back, we’d be through the pandemic, but it hasn’t gone away,” Atkins said. “We’re going to have to continue to bear that in mind.”

There’s also the makeup of the Legislature itself. Following the redistricting process after the 2020 census, state Senate and Assembly district lines have been shaken up — and a number of lawmakers will be lame ducks this session because they’re not running for re-election in 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;

There’s also the makeup of the Legislature itself. Following the redistricting process after the 2020 census, state Senate and Assembly district lines have been shaken up — and a number of lawmakers will be lame ducks this session because they’re not running for re-election in 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Here are four themes to watch in the new legislative session:

Here are four themes to watch in the new legislative session:

<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cash-rules">Cash rules</h3>

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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cash-rules">Cash rules</h3>

Compared to the&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/politics/2021/06/california-newsom-budget-deal/">$76 billion surplus from 2021</a>, California is&nbsp;<a href="https://lao.ca.gov/Publications/Report/4472">projecting a $31 billion surplus</a>&nbsp;in the general fund, plus $20 billion in Proposition 98 funding for education.&nbsp;

Compared to the&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/politics/2021/06/california-newsom-budget-deal/">$76 billion surplus from 2021</a>, California is&nbsp;<a href="https://lao.ca.gov/Publications/Report/4472">projecting a $31 billion surplus</a>&nbsp;in the general fund, plus $20 billion in Proposition 98 funding for education.&nbsp;

The windfall is fueled, like last year,&nbsp;<a href="https://lao.ca.gov/LAOEconTax/Article/Detail/712?utm_source=t.co&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=outlook">with tax revenue</a>&nbsp;and federal funds. In addition, the November&nbsp;<a href="https://t.co/71drM5nRmQ">cap-and-trade auction</a>&nbsp;generated $732 million, according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://lao.ca.gov/Publications/Report/4480?utm_source=t.co&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=4480">Legislative Analyst’s Office</a>.&nbsp;

The windfall is fueled, like last year,&nbsp;<a href="https://lao.ca.gov/LAOEconTax/Article/Detail/712?utm_source=t.co&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=outlook">with tax revenue</a>&nbsp;and federal funds. In addition, the November&nbsp;<a href="https://t.co/71drM5nRmQ">cap-and-trade auction</a>&nbsp;generated $732 million, according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://lao.ca.gov/Publications/Report/4480?utm_source=t.co&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=4480">Legislative Analyst’s Office</a>.&nbsp;

In his budget proposal that is due by Jan. 10, Gov. Gavin Newsom has vowed to include&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/politics/2021/12/california-crime-newsom-budget/">more than $350 million to stop organized retail thefts</a>, plus more money for&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/newsletters/whatmatters/2021/12/governor-newsom-budget-priority/">dyslexia programs after authoring a children’s book</a>&nbsp;on his own battles. He’s also hinted that he’ll include&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/newsletters/whatmatters/2021/11/california-stimulus-checks/">another round of stimulus checks</a>.

In his budget proposal that is due by Jan. 10, Gov. Gavin Newsom has vowed to include&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/politics/2021/12/california-crime-newsom-budget/">more than $350 million to stop organized retail thefts</a>, plus more money for&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/newsletters/whatmatters/2021/12/governor-newsom-budget-priority/">dyslexia programs after authoring a children’s book</a>&nbsp;on his own battles. He’s also hinted that he’ll include&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/newsletters/whatmatters/2021/11/california-stimulus-checks/">another round of stimulus checks</a>.

Neither of the spending priority lists put out by Senate or&nbsp;<a href="https://a19.asmdc.org/sites/a19.asmdc.org/files/2021-12/2022%20Budget%20Blueprint%20FNL_0.pdf">Assembly leaders</a>&nbsp;mention a stimulus check. Instead, they are framing the budget around a more inclusive economic recovery and a more equitable economy.

Neither of the spending priority lists put out by Senate or&nbsp;<a href="https://a19.asmdc.org/sites/a19.asmdc.org/files/2021-12/2022%20Budget%20Blueprint%20FNL_0.pdf">Assembly leaders</a>&nbsp;mention a stimulus check. Instead, they are framing the budget around a more inclusive economic recovery and a more equitable economy.

<a href="https://sd39.senate.ca.gov/news/20211208-senate-budget-key-values-focus-putting-california%E2%80%99s-wealth-work-more-equitable-economy">Atkins said</a> California’s economy is strong, but that&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/california-divide/2021/12/california-racial-inequality-budget/">wealth needs to be put to work</a>.

<a href="https://sd39.senate.ca.gov/news/20211208-senate-budget-key-values-focus-putting-california%E2%80%99s-wealth-work-more-equitable-economy">Atkins said</a> California’s economy is strong, but that&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/california-divide/2021/12/california-racial-inequality-budget/">wealth needs to be put to work</a>.

“Those at the top are doing better than ever before, and that’s good for California in terms of our revenue,” Atkins said in an interview. “But as strong as the economy is, we face a homelessness crisis that you see every day in every corner of the state. And we know how hard it is for everyday, ordinary families to get by.”

“Those at the top are doing better than ever before, and that’s good for California in terms of our revenue,” Atkins said in an interview. “But as strong as the economy is, we face a homelessness crisis that you see every day in every corner of the state. And we know how hard it is for everyday, ordinary families to get by.”

The&nbsp;<a href="https://sbud.senate.ca.gov/sites/sbud.senate.ca.gov/files/1208-SenateBudgetPlan-Step1.pdf">Senate plan builds&nbsp;on</a>&nbsp;2021 programs, including targeted relief such as the child tax credit, Earned Income Tax Credit&nbsp;and small business aid.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;<a href="https://sbud.senate.ca.gov/sites/sbud.senate.ca.gov/files/1208-SenateBudgetPlan-Step1.pdf">Senate plan builds&nbsp;on</a>&nbsp;2021 programs, including targeted relief such as the child tax credit, Earned Income Tax Credit&nbsp;and small business aid.&nbsp;

Senate and Assembly leaders also say they will seek to put more money into K-12 schools and higher education, and look to maintain the state’s reserves “to protect the progress we are making from future downturns,” per Atkins. Last year, the Legislature was able to maintain&nbsp;<a href="https://calbudgetcenter.org/resources/analysis-2021-22-state-budget/">$25 billion in reserves</a>.

Senate and Assembly leaders also say they will seek to put more money into K-12 schools and higher education, and look to maintain the state’s reserves “to protect the progress we are making from future downturns,” per Atkins. Last year, the Legislature was able to maintain&nbsp;<a href="https://calbudgetcenter.org/resources/analysis-2021-22-state-budget/">$25 billion in reserves</a>.

Rendon said that the budget surplus would enable California to “rebuild infrastructure in every corner of the state.”&nbsp;Meanwhile, Senate Republicans are calling for $3.3 billion to be spent on water projects, most of which would go to the contentious Sites Reservoir.&nbsp;

Rendon said that the budget surplus would enable California to “rebuild infrastructure in every corner of the state.”&nbsp;Meanwhile, Senate Republicans are calling for $3.3 billion to be spent on water projects, most of which would go to the contentious Sites Reservoir.&nbsp;

Expending one-time funds on infrastructure would help the Legislature avoid exceeding the&nbsp;<a href="https://lao.ca.gov/reports/2021/4416/SAL-042121.pdf">Gann Limit</a>, which requires that when the state hits a spending revenue threshold two years in a row, the excess money must be reimbursed to taxpayers or spent on schools. Revenue spent on building reserves and paying off debt is excluded from the limit.&nbsp;

Expending one-time funds on infrastructure would help the Legislature avoid exceeding the&nbsp;<a href="https://lao.ca.gov/reports/2021/4416/SAL-042121.pdf">Gann Limit</a>, which requires that when the state hits a spending revenue threshold two years in a row, the excess money must be reimbursed to taxpayers or spent on schools. Revenue spent on building reserves and paying off debt is excluded from the limit.&nbsp;

<a href="https://twitter.com/jasonsisney/status/1468262450516561927?s=20">Jason Sisney</a>, Rendon’s budget advisor, noted that the Gann limit did not kick in last year, despite the historic surplus.&nbsp;

<a href="https://twitter.com/jasonsisney/status/1468262450516561927?s=20">Jason Sisney</a>, Rendon’s budget advisor, noted that the Gann limit did not kick in last year, despite the historic surplus.&nbsp;

Assembly Budget Chairperson Phil Ting, a San Francisco Democrat,&nbsp;<a href="https://a19.asmdc.org/press-releases/20211209-assembly-budget-blueprint-aims-deliver-prosperity-more-californians-while">told reporters last month</a>&nbsp;that with less money than last year to expand programs, the Legislature is likely to employ more creative one-time funding measures, including on transportation and transit, which didn’t receive as much funding in 2021.

Assembly Budget Chairperson Phil Ting, a San Francisco Democrat,&nbsp;<a href="https://a19.asmdc.org/press-releases/20211209-assembly-budget-blueprint-aims-deliver-prosperity-more-californians-while">told reporters last month</a>&nbsp;that with less money than last year to expand programs, the Legislature is likely to employ more creative one-time funding measures, including on transportation and transit, which didn’t receive as much funding in 2021.

“We’re definitely not back towards normal, but as we sort of come out of the pandemic a little bit, it’s not exactly clear where the best investments are and where the biggest impact is,” Ting said. “This is what the budget process is for. We have from now ’til June to really identify where we can make the biggest impact.”

“We’re definitely not back towards normal, but as we sort of come out of the pandemic a little bit, it’s not exactly clear where the best investments are and where the biggest impact is,” Ting said. “This is what the budget process is for. We have from now ’til June to really identify where we can make the biggest impact.”

And while there is a budget surplus, Rendon said one challenge this year is to make sure that the Legislature is fiscally responsible, and that big and small cities alike get their fair share.

And while there is a budget surplus, Rendon said one challenge this year is to make sure that the Legislature is fiscally responsible, and that big and small cities alike get their fair share.

<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Guns and abortion</h3>

In the final weeks of 2021, two hot-button issues reemerged and landed squarely on the legislative agenda.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

In the final weeks of 2021, two hot-button issues reemerged and landed squarely on the legislative agenda.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

While California already has some of the&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/explainers/california-gun-laws-policy-explained/">nation’s toughest gun control laws</a>, some are tied up in court. So Newsom&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/GavinNewsom/status/1469865185493983234">went after guns and tied the issue to abortion</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While California already has some of the&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/explainers/california-gun-laws-policy-explained/">nation’s toughest gun control laws</a>, some are tied up in court. So Newsom&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/GavinNewsom/status/1469865185493983234">went after guns and tied the issue to abortion</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

He took a page from Texas’ playbook after the U.S. Supreme Court allowed that state’s ban on abortions after six weeks of pregnancy to stand in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/21pdf/21-463_3ebh.pdf">December ruling</a>. Newsom vowed to work with state lawmakers and Attorney General Rob Bonta —&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/politics/2021/03/newsom-picks-rob-bonta-as-californias-new-attorney-general/">whom he appointed</a>&nbsp;— to draft a bill that would allow private citizens to sue anyone who manufactures, distributes or sells illegal assault weapons or “ghost” guns, modeling it after Texas’&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-supreme-court-texas-56fe96917e21b53b581005cb30db66e0">unusually structured abortion law</a>.&nbsp;

He took a page from Texas’ playbook after the U.S. Supreme Court allowed that state’s ban on abortions after six weeks of pregnancy to stand in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/21pdf/21-463_3ebh.pdf">December ruling</a>. Newsom vowed to work with state lawmakers and Attorney General Rob Bonta —&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/politics/2021/03/newsom-picks-rob-bonta-as-californias-new-attorney-general/">whom he appointed</a>&nbsp;— to draft a bill that would allow private citizens to sue anyone who manufactures, distributes or sells illegal assault weapons or “ghost” guns, modeling it after Texas’&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-supreme-court-texas-56fe96917e21b53b581005cb30db66e0">unusually structured abortion law</a>.&nbsp;

The Texas abortion law has also prompted advocates and lawmakers to double down on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kqed.org/news/11898317/with-abortion-rights-threatened-45-recommendations-for-improving-access-in-california">abortion access in California</a>.&nbsp;

The Texas abortion law has also prompted advocates and lawmakers to double down on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kqed.org/news/11898317/with-abortion-rights-threatened-45-recommendations-for-improving-access-in-california">abortion access in California</a>.&nbsp;

A task force appointed by Newsom is recommending measures to&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/newsletters/whatmatters/2021/12/california-abortion-newsom/">make California a “sanctuary state” for abortions</a>, including helping to pay for the procedure, along with travel, lodging and other costs for women who come to California because their states limit access.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

A task force appointed by Newsom is recommending measures to&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/newsletters/whatmatters/2021/12/california-abortion-newsom/">make California a “sanctuary state” for abortions</a>, including helping to pay for the procedure, along with travel, lodging and other costs for women who come to California because their states limit access.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Potentially, that could be tens of millions of dollars in state taxpayer money. If the U.S. Supreme Court effectively repeals Roe vs. Wade next summer,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.guttmacher.org/article/2021/10/26-states-are-certain-or-likely-ban-abortion-without-roe-heres-which-ones-and-why">advocates say that</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.guttmacher.org/article/2021/10/26-states-are-certain-or-likely-ban-abortion-without-roe-heres-which-ones-and-why">could lead to 26 states</a>&nbsp;immediately banning or severely limiting abortions. California would then become the closest state with broad abortion access within driving distance for 1.4 million women.

Potentially, that could be tens of millions of dollars in state taxpayer money. If the U.S. Supreme Court effectively repeals Roe vs. Wade next summer,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.guttmacher.org/article/2021/10/26-states-are-certain-or-likely-ban-abortion-without-roe-heres-which-ones-and-why">advocates say that</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.guttmacher.org/article/2021/10/26-states-are-certain-or-likely-ban-abortion-without-roe-heres-which-ones-and-why">could lead to 26 states</a>&nbsp;immediately banning or severely limiting abortions. California would then become the closest state with broad abortion access within driving distance for 1.4 million women.

<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Other issues</h3>

On other issues such as housing and climate change mitigation, legislative leaders said they plan to see through the investments they made last year.

On other issues such as housing and climate change mitigation, legislative leaders said they plan to see through the investments they made last year.

That includes more affordable housing for families, as well as more permanent and temporary supportive housing for homeless people. To figure out what’s working and what’s not, Rendon said incoming Assembly Housing Committee chairperson Buffy Wicks, an Oakland Democrat, will review accountability of state programs on housing,&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/housing/2021/09/california-eviction-moratorium-rent-relief/">rent relief</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/housing/homeless/2021/11/california-homeless-camps-clearing-plan/">homelessness</a>.

That includes more affordable housing for families, as well as more permanent and temporary supportive housing for homeless people. To figure out what’s working and what’s not, Rendon said incoming Assembly Housing Committee chairperson Buffy Wicks, an Oakland Democrat, will review accountability of state programs on housing,&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/housing/2021/09/california-eviction-moratorium-rent-relief/">rent relief</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/housing/homeless/2021/11/california-homeless-camps-clearing-plan/">homelessness</a>.

“We’re kind of hesitant to change our approach drastically,” Rendon said. “We’ve invested again,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gov.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/HOMELESSNESS-CRISIS-FACT-SHEET.pdf">$12 billion over two years</a>. Rather than continually changing our ways of dealing with homelessness, if there are mid-course corrections that need to be made then we should do that.”

“We’re kind of hesitant to change our approach drastically,” Rendon said. “We’ve invested again,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gov.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/HOMELESSNESS-CRISIS-FACT-SHEET.pdf">$12 billion over two years</a>. Rather than continually changing our ways of dealing with homelessness, if there are mid-course corrections that need to be made then we should do that.”

As part of bolstering California’s safety net, both chambers plan to continue investments in public health. Legislators are also expected to revisit single-payer health care — one of&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/politics/2021/02/newsom-single-payer-health-care-dilemma/">Newsom’s campaign promises</a>&nbsp;— and a plan to create an “<a href="https://hcai.ca.gov/get-the-facts-about-the-proposed-office-of-health-care-affordability-at-oshpd/">Office of Health Care Affordability</a>” to set cost targets for health plans, hospitals, physician groups and prescription drugs.&nbsp;

As part of bolstering California’s safety net, both chambers plan to continue investments in public health. Legislators are also expected to revisit single-payer health care — one of&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/politics/2021/02/newsom-single-payer-health-care-dilemma/">Newsom’s campaign promises</a>&nbsp;— and a plan to create an “<a href="https://hcai.ca.gov/get-the-facts-about-the-proposed-office-of-health-care-affordability-at-oshpd/">Office of Health Care Affordability</a>” to set cost targets for health plans, hospitals, physician groups and prescription drugs.&nbsp;

Advocacy groups have called on Newsom to lower deductibles before&nbsp;<a href="https://cahealthadvocates.org/medi-cal-share-of-cost-needs-reform-cha-calls-on-governor-newsom/">Medi-Cal will pay the costs of healthcare</a>. Others have asked the Legislature to ensure that federal funds from the proposed&nbsp;<a href="https://cahealthadvocates.org/build-back-better-invests-in-crucial-services-for-older-adults-people-with-disabilities/">Build Back Better bill</a>&nbsp;boost programs for seniors and those with disabilities.

Advocacy groups have called on Newsom to lower deductibles before&nbsp;<a href="https://cahealthadvocates.org/medi-cal-share-of-cost-needs-reform-cha-calls-on-governor-newsom/">Medi-Cal will pay the costs of healthcare</a>. Others have asked the Legislature to ensure that federal funds from the proposed&nbsp;<a href="https://cahealthadvocates.org/build-back-better-invests-in-crucial-services-for-older-adults-people-with-disabilities/">Build Back Better bill</a>&nbsp;boost programs for seniors and those with disabilities.

<a href="https://twitter.com/LorenaSGonzalez/status/1475888907564683264?s=20">Progressives and labor groups also plan</a>&nbsp;to push to restore&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/economy/labor/2021/09/california-sick-leave-covid-extra-time-ending/">emergency paid sick leave for COVID-19, which expired Sept. 30</a>. SEIU California says that additional sick leave is even more important with shortened quarantine requirements for healthcare workers who are “being called to sacrifice and risk our lives again” despite the surge fueled by the omicron variant.&nbsp;

<a href="https://twitter.com/LorenaSGonzalez/status/1475888907564683264?s=20">Progressives and labor groups also plan</a>&nbsp;to push to restore&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/economy/labor/2021/09/california-sick-leave-covid-extra-time-ending/">emergency paid sick leave for COVID-19, which expired Sept. 30</a>. SEIU California says that additional sick leave is even more important with shortened quarantine requirements for healthcare workers who are “being called to sacrifice and risk our lives again” despite the surge fueled by the omicron variant.&nbsp;

Children are also a priority area, including investments in mental health resources for students and to address learning losses caused by the pandemic. State Sen. Nancy Skinner, a Berkeley Democrat, plans to introduce a bill to&nbsp;<a href="https://sd09.senate.ca.gov/news/20211227-skinner-will-introduce-bill-establish-hope-accounts-children-covid-victims">create savings accounts of as much as $5,000</a>&nbsp;for children whose parents died from the virus.&nbsp;Also, it’s likely that lawmakers will revisit a highly-charged debate that&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sacbee.com/news/politics-government/capitol-alert/article256750522.html">has led to death threats previously</a>: Whether to&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/education/k-12-education/2021/10/student-covid-vaccination-loophole/">narrow or eliminate the personal belief exemption</a>&nbsp;from the vaccine mandate for K-12 students and staff.

Children are also a priority area, including investments in mental health resources for students and to address learning losses caused by the pandemic. State Sen. Nancy Skinner, a Berkeley Democrat, plans to introduce a bill to&nbsp;<a href="https://sd09.senate.ca.gov/news/20211227-skinner-will-introduce-bill-establish-hope-accounts-children-covid-victims">create savings accounts of as much as $5,000</a>&nbsp;for children whose parents died from the virus.&nbsp;Also, it’s likely that lawmakers will revisit a highly-charged debate that&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sacbee.com/news/politics-government/capitol-alert/article256750522.html">has led to death threats previously</a>: Whether to&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/education/k-12-education/2021/10/student-covid-vaccination-loophole/">narrow or eliminate the personal belief exemption</a>&nbsp;from the vaccine mandate for K-12 students and staff.

Rendon, who was part of the California delegation that attended the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Scotland in November, said the Assembly also plans to ramp up its efforts to meet the state’s 2030 climate goals, including lowering carbon emissions. Rendon also said there would likely be more focus on eliminating single-use plastics, building on last year’s bills.

Rendon, who was part of the California delegation that attended the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Scotland in November, said the Assembly also plans to ramp up its efforts to meet the state’s 2030 climate goals, including lowering carbon emissions. Rendon also said there would likely be more focus on eliminating single-use plastics, building on last year’s bills.

Atkins said the Senate plans to continue finding ways to prevent wildfires and addressing drought, water and sea level rise.

Atkins said the Senate plans to continue finding ways to prevent wildfires and addressing drought, water and sea level rise.

State water agencies have also recommended updated&nbsp;<a href="https://water.ca.gov/News/News-Releases/2021/Nov-21/State-Agencies-Recommend-Indoor-Residential-Water-Use-Standard">water use efficiency goals</a>&nbsp;for water suppliers: 55 gallons per person per day by 2023, declining to 47 gallons per day by 2025, and 42 gallons by 2030. To take effect, the standards would need to be adopted by the Legislature.&nbsp;

State water agencies have also recommended updated&nbsp;<a href="https://water.ca.gov/News/News-Releases/2021/Nov-21/State-Agencies-Recommend-Indoor-Residential-Water-Use-Standard">water use efficiency goals</a>&nbsp;for water suppliers: 55 gallons per person per day by 2023, declining to 47 gallons per day by 2025, and 42 gallons by 2030. To take effect, the standards would need to be adopted by the Legislature.&nbsp;

The conversations around law enforcement and criminal justice reform are also likely to continue in 2022, including another attempt to reform cash bail after&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/election-2020-guide/proposition-25-cash-bail/">voters in 2020 overturned a more sweeping law</a>.&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/explainers/california-legislature-bills-passed-2021/">Laws passed in 2021</a>&nbsp;included allowing a state commission to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4pFBqBh2ehc">decertify police officers for wrongdoing</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wfa_M3vfpBQ">limiting police use of rubber bullets</a>&nbsp;and other less lethal weapons at protests and demonstrations.&nbsp;

The conversations around law enforcement and criminal justice reform are also likely to continue in 2022, including another attempt to reform cash bail after&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/election-2020-guide/proposition-25-cash-bail/">voters in 2020 overturned a more sweeping law</a>.&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/explainers/california-legislature-bills-passed-2021/">Laws passed in 2021</a>&nbsp;included allowing a state commission to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4pFBqBh2ehc">decertify police officers for wrongdoing</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wfa_M3vfpBQ">limiting police use of rubber bullets</a>&nbsp;and other less lethal weapons at protests and demonstrations.&nbsp;

Assembly leaders also say they plan to&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/newsletters/whatmatters/2021/10/california-edd-fixes/">increase oversight at the problem-plagued Employment Development Department</a>, including a strike team plan to help Californians receive their unemployment benefits.&nbsp;

Assembly leaders also say they plan to&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/newsletters/whatmatters/2021/10/california-edd-fixes/">increase oversight at the problem-plagued Employment Development Department</a>, including a strike team plan to help Californians receive their unemployment benefits.&nbsp;

Finally,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.assembly.ca.gov/dailyfile">legislators could reconsider</a>&nbsp;any of the&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/politics/2021/10/california-bills-newsom-vetoes/">66 bills that they passed but that Newsom vetoed</a>. But there’s little discussion of doing so. It takes a two-thirds vote of both the Assembly and Senate to override a veto and that&nbsp;<a href="https://sor.senate.ca.gov/sites/sor.senate.ca.gov/files/2391%20SOR%20report%20governors%20veto%20record%20final.pdf">hasn’t happened since 1980</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Finally,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.assembly.ca.gov/dailyfile">legislators could reconsider</a>&nbsp;any of the&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/politics/2021/10/california-bills-newsom-vetoes/">66 bills that they passed but that Newsom vetoed</a>. But there’s little discussion of doing so. It takes a two-thirds vote of both the Assembly and Senate to override a veto and that&nbsp;<a href="https://sor.senate.ca.gov/sites/sor.senate.ca.gov/files/2391%20SOR%20report%20governors%20veto%20record%20final.pdf">hasn’t happened since 1980</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hellos-and-goodbyes">Hellos and goodbyes</h3>

Say hello to your new districts, and goodbye to some lawmakers.&nbsp;

Say hello to your new districts, and goodbye to some lawmakers.&nbsp;

Following every census, state legislative and congressional boundaries are redrawn to account for population changes. On Dec. 27, the state’s independent redistricting commission&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/politics/2021/12/california-redistricting-final-maps/">certified its new maps</a>.

Following every census, state legislative and congressional boundaries are redrawn to account for population changes. On Dec. 27, the state’s independent redistricting commission&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/politics/2021/12/california-redistricting-final-maps/">certified its new maps</a>.

The commission drew the lines from scratch without taking current district lines or incumbents into account. As usual, that means there will be some musical chairs as legislators compete against fellow incumbents drawn into the same district, try to appeal to voters in a new district or decide to run for higher office.&nbsp;

The commission drew the lines from scratch without taking current district lines or incumbents into account. As usual, that means there will be some musical chairs as legislators compete against fellow incumbents drawn into the same district, try to appeal to voters in a new district or decide to run for higher office.&nbsp;

So far, 11&nbsp;legislators have announced that 2022 will be their last session and they won’t seek re-election, while seven others hit term limits. Assemblymember Lorena Gonzalez, a San Diego Democrat, announced on the first day of the new session that she’s leaving immediately to head the California Labor Foundation.

So far, 11&nbsp;legislators have announced that 2022 will be their last session and they won’t seek re-election, while seven others hit term limits. Assemblymember Lorena Gonzalez, a San Diego Democrat, announced on the first day of the new session that she’s leaving immediately to head the California Labor Foundation.

And three — Democratic Assemblymembers Ed Chau of Monterey Park in Los Angeles County, David Chiu of San Francisco and Jim Frazier of Fairfield — have already resigned, so&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sos.ca.gov/elections/upcoming-elections">there will be special elections</a>&nbsp;to replace them.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

And three — Democratic Assemblymembers Ed Chau of Monterey Park in Los Angeles County, David Chiu of San Francisco and Jim Frazier of Fairfield — have already resigned, so&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sos.ca.gov/elections/upcoming-elections">there will be special elections</a>&nbsp;to replace them.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Rendon said that not having a full slate of Assembly members can be difficult, but that he hopes all those seats are filled as soon as possible.&nbsp;

Rendon said that not having a full slate of Assembly members can be difficult, but that he hopes all those seats are filled as soon as possible.&nbsp;

“It’s difficult from the standpoint that they’re friends, it’s hard to see them go,” said Rendon. “At the same time, we’ve had a tremendous amount of turnover, and that’s brought on freshmen, and opportunities for people like Mia Bonta, Akilah Weber and ​​Isaac Bryan. The freshmen have a lot to offer as well, and the turnover also offers opportunities for new chairs and leadership.”&nbsp;

“It’s difficult from the standpoint that they’re friends, it’s hard to see them go,” said Rendon. “At the same time, we’ve had a tremendous amount of turnover, and that’s brought on freshmen, and opportunities for people like Mia Bonta, Akilah Weber and ​​Isaac Bryan. The freshmen have a lot to offer as well, and the turnover also offers opportunities for new chairs and leadership.”&nbsp;

Rendon also reaffirmed that he isn’t planning to step aside early: “I’ve got a job to do, and I’ll do it until 2024.”&nbsp;

Rendon also reaffirmed that he isn’t planning to step aside early: “I’ve got a job to do, and I’ll do it until 2024.”&nbsp;

The California Legislature is back: What to expect in 2022

Meaghan Mitchell

When George Floyd was murdered <a href="https://hoodline.com/2020/06/100-volunteers-paint-black-lives-matter-in-center-of-san-francisco-street/">a year ago</a>, Bay Area community leaders, artists and activists came together at the African American Art &amp; Culture Complex (AAACC) to paint the words &#8220;Black Lives Matter&#8221; on Fulton Street across three blocks between Webster and Octavia. On the one-year anniversary of George Floyd&#8217;s death this week, the group reunited to restore the street mural, listen to live music and speakers, browse the outdoor gallery and connect with fellow community members.&nbsp;

When George Floyd was murdered <a href="https://hoodline.com/2020/06/100-volunteers-paint-black-lives-matter-in-center-of-san-francisco-street/">a year ago</a>, Bay Area community leaders, artists and activists came together at the African American Art &amp; Culture Complex (AAACC) to paint the words "Black Lives Matter'' on Fulton Street across three blocks between Webster and Octavia. On the one-year anniversary of George Floyd's death this week, the group reunited to restore the street mural, listen to live music and speakers, browse the outdoor gallery and connect with fellow community members.&nbsp;

When George Floyd was murdered <a href="https://hoodline.com/2020/06/100-volunteers-paint-black-lives-matter-in-center-of-san-francisco-street/">a year ago</a>, Bay Area community leaders, artists and activists came together at the African American Art &amp; Culture Complex (AAACC) to paint the words &#8220;Black Lives Matter&#8221; on Fulton Street across three blocks between Webster and Octavia. On the one-year anniversary of George Floyd&#8217;s death this week, the group reunited to restore the street mural, listen to live music and speakers, browse the outdoor gallery and connect with fellow community members.&nbsp;

Here/Say asked attendees to reflect on whether the Black Lives Matter movement has created lasting change.

Here/Say asked attendees to reflect on whether the Black Lives Matter movement has created lasting change.

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Phelicia Jones, Founder of Wealth And Disparities In The Black Community

<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-phelicia-jones-founder-of-wealth-and-disparities-in-the-black-community">Phelicia Jones, Founder of Wealth And Disparities In The Black Community</h3>

<h3 id="h-phelicia-jones-founder-of-wealth-and-disparities-in-the-black-community">Phelicia Jones, Founder of Wealth And Disparities In The Black Community</h3>

“George Floyd’s murder sparked a national outcry which is important, but San Francisco’s citizens should also look at what is happening in their own backyards with this movement as it relates to Black and Brown people dying at the hands of police. Mario Woods, Luis Gongora Pat, Alex Nieto, Jessica Wiliams. You could just go on naming people. And as for the officers, they just go back to work. They get their pensions. They get their vacations. It’s the Black community that suffers. This pain exists for us, whereas life goes on for the officers.”

“George Floyd’s murder sparked a national outcry which is important, but San Francisco’s citizens should also look at what is happening in their own backyards with this movement as it relates to Black and Brown people dying at the hands of police. Mario Woods, Luis Gongora Pat, Alex Nieto, Jessica Wiliams. You could just go on naming people. And as for the officers, they just go back to work. They get their pensions. They get their vacations. It’s the Black community that suffers. This pain exists for us, whereas life goes on for the officers.”

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/FloydMemorial_WEB6.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3997"/><figcaption>Phelicia Jones, founder of Wealth and Disparities in the Black Community and the Justice 4 Mario Woods Coalition, poses in front of the African American Art &amp; Culture Complex. | Photo by Camille Cohen </figcaption></figure>

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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/FloydMemorial_WEB6.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3997"/><figcaption>Phelicia Jones, founder of Wealth and Disparities in the Black Community and the Justice 4 Mario Woods Coalition, poses in front of the African American Art &amp; Culture Complex. | Photo by Camille Cohen </figcaption></figure>

Andre Jones, Mural Director

<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Andre Jones, Mural Director</h3>

<h3>Andre Jones, Mural Director</h3>

&#8220;When I think of George Floyd, I think of Black families that have lost fathers, the incarceration system that continually locks up Black and Brown people. When we lose our fathers, we lose the backbones of our community. A year later, some things have changed, but not enough. That&#8217;s why we are restoring this mural as a reminder that more work needs to be done.”&nbsp;

"When I think of George Floyd, I think of Black families that have lost fathers, the incarceration system that continually locks up Black and Brown people. When we lose our fathers, we lose the backbones of our community. A year later, some things have changed, but not enough. That's why we are restoring this mural as a reminder that more work needs to be done.”&nbsp;

&#8220;When I think of George Floyd, I think of Black families that have lost fathers, the incarceration system that continually locks up Black and Brown people. When we lose our fathers, we lose the backbones of our community. A year later, some things have changed, but not enough. That&#8217;s why we are restoring this mural as a reminder that more work needs to be done.”&nbsp;

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/FloydMemorial_WEB2.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4008"/><figcaption>Under the direction of Andre Jones, members of the Bay Area Mural Program and the Philonise and Keeta Floyd Institute for Social Change, along with staff from the African American Art &amp; Culture Complex (AAACC) and others, paint the Black Lives Matter Mural on Fulton Street.&nbsp;| Photo by Camille Cohen </figcaption></figure>

Stevante Clark, Activist&nbsp;

<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Stevante Clark, Activist&nbsp;</h3>

<h3>Stevante Clark, Activist&nbsp;</h3>

“There&#8217;s a difference between justice and accountability. [The verdict in the Derek Chauvin trial] was a little bit of accountability.&nbsp; We must be sure to keep that in our mind, otherwise, we&#8217;ll accept anything and call it justice. ”&nbsp;

“There's a difference between justice and accountability. [The verdict in the Derek Chauvin trial] was a little bit of accountability.&nbsp; We must be sure to keep that in our mind, otherwise, we'll accept anything and call it justice. ”&nbsp;

“There&#8217;s a difference between justice and accountability. [The verdict in the Derek Chauvin trial] was a little bit of accountability.&nbsp; We must be sure to keep that in our mind, otherwise, we&#8217;ll accept anything and call it justice. ”&nbsp;

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/FloydMemorial_WEB7.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4017"/><figcaption>Stevante Clark, an activist whose unarmed brother Stephon Clark was gunned down by Sacramento police in 2018, speaks in front of a mural. Since his brother&#8217;s murder, Stevante has led numerous protests in his hometown and was even instrumental in working alongside Governor Gavin Newsom to establish the Stephon Clark law, which changed the standard for when law enforcement can use deadly force. | Photo by Camille Cohen </figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/FloydMemorial_WEB7.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4017"/><figcaption>Stevante Clark, an activist whose unarmed brother Stephon Clark was gunned down by Sacramento police in 2018, speaks in front of a mural. Since his brother's murder, Stevante has led numerous protests in his hometown and was even instrumental in working alongside Governor Gavin Newsom to establish the Stephon Clark law, which changed the standard for when law enforcement can use deadly force. | Photo by Camille Cohen </figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/FloydMemorial_WEB7.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4017"/><figcaption>Stevante Clark, an activist whose unarmed brother Stephon Clark was gunned down by Sacramento police in 2018, speaks in front of a mural. Since his brother&#8217;s murder, Stevante has led numerous protests in his hometown and was even instrumental in working alongside Governor Gavin Newsom to establish the Stephon Clark law, which changed the standard for when law enforcement can use deadly force. | Photo by Camille Cohen </figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/FloydMemorial_WEB5.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4054"/><figcaption>Community members gather to help repaint the mural.</figcaption></figure>

Reverend Arnold Townsend

<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Reverend Arnold Townsend</h3>

<h3>Reverend Arnold Townsend</h3>

“I am not necessarily happy with the level of progress. The first step is to come to grips with how bad it really is. In our city, because of the liberal, progressive, even radical reputation we have, we don’t want to admit how bad things really are. When you live in a city where the average Black person makes around 30k for a year, but the White person makes over 100k a year, that is an unbelievable disparity. I’m not willing to say, ‘Let’s wait, things will get better eventually.’ We have to stop the wheels while they are in motion. The police are bearing the brunt of this, which they should. But to be honest, some of the racial disparities that we find within the police department are the same that we can find in just about every department in the city, and what&#8217;s their contribution to changing the outcome for Black life?”&nbsp;

“I am not necessarily happy with the level of progress. The first step is to come to grips with how bad it really is. In our city, because of the liberal, progressive, even radical reputation we have, we don’t want to admit how bad things really are. When you live in a city where the average Black person makes around 30k for a year, but the White person makes over 100k a year, that is an unbelievable disparity. I’m not willing to say, ‘Let’s wait, things will get better eventually.’ We have to stop the wheels while they are in motion. The police are bearing the brunt of this, which they should. But to be honest, some of the racial disparities that we find within the police department are the same that we can find in just about every department in the city, and what's their contribution to changing the outcome for Black life?”&nbsp;

“I am not necessarily happy with the level of progress. The first step is to come to grips with how bad it really is. In our city, because of the liberal, progressive, even radical reputation we have, we don’t want to admit how bad things really are. When you live in a city where the average Black person makes around 30k for a year, but the White person makes over 100k a year, that is an unbelievable disparity. I’m not willing to say, ‘Let’s wait, things will get better eventually.’ We have to stop the wheels while they are in motion. The police are bearing the brunt of this, which they should. But to be honest, some of the racial disparities that we find within the police department are the same that we can find in just about every department in the city, and what&#8217;s their contribution to changing the outcome for Black life?”&nbsp;

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/FloydMemorial_WEB4.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4026"/><figcaption>AAACC staff member Amina James takes a quick break from painting. | Photo by Camille Cohen</figcaption></figure>

Melonie Green, Co-Executive Director of the AAACC

<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Melonie Green, Co-Executive Director of the AAACC</h3>

<h3>Melonie Green, Co-Executive Director of the AAACC</h3>

&#8220;I am thankful that we have the opportunity to display this type of activism while we are trying to figure out our way out of this pandemic, but when it comes to real change the keyword is consistency. We have to figure out how to share knowledge, build trust and have better relationships with our civic leaders.&#8220;

"I am thankful that we have the opportunity to display this type of activism while we are trying to figure out our way out of this pandemic, but when it comes to real change the keyword is consistency. We have to figure out how to share knowledge, build trust and have better relationships with our civic leaders."

&#8220;I am thankful that we have the opportunity to display this type of activism while we are trying to figure out our way out of this pandemic, but when it comes to real change the keyword is consistency. We have to figure out how to share knowledge, build trust and have better relationships with our civic leaders.&#8220;

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/FloydMemorial_WEB8.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4038"/><figcaption>An event attendee poses in front of the open-air gallery located in the AAACC&#8217;s parking lot.&nbsp;| Photo by Camille Cohen </figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/FloydMemorial_WEB8.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4038"/><figcaption>An event attendee poses in front of the open-air gallery located in the AAACC's parking lot.&nbsp;| Photo by Camille Cohen </figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/FloydMemorial_WEB8.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4038"/><figcaption>An event attendee poses in front of the open-air gallery located in the AAACC&#8217;s parking lot.&nbsp;| Photo by Camille Cohen </figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/FloydMemorial_WEB9.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4045"/><figcaption>Fillmore community members relax in the open-air gallery after painting the BLM mural. | Photo by Camille Cohen</figcaption></figure>

Photo essay: The Fillmore’s BLM street mural rises again

For Mary Conde, vice president of production at Another Planet Entertainment and chief organizer of this weekend’s Outside Lands music festival, the comeback of the city’s entertainment scene began on a Monday afternoon last month when she told her team to “send the tweet.”

For Mary Conde, vice president of production at Another Planet Entertainment and chief organizer of this weekend’s Outside Lands music festival, the comeback of the city’s entertainment scene began on a Monday afternoon last month when she told her team to “send the tweet.”

The message, from the Twitter account of The Independent music hall on Divisadero St., revealed a surprise last-minute Metallica performance that evening that Conde had secretly put together. Only 500 tickets were available, $20 each, vaccine documentation required.

The message, from the Twitter account of The Independent music hall on Divisadero St., revealed a surprise last-minute Metallica performance that evening that Conde had secretly put together. Only 500 tickets were available, $20 each, vaccine documentation required.

Lucky fans who secured wristbands took to social media to express their glee, with one fan <a href="https://twitter.com/nbcjeanelle/status/1438711410716864519?s=20">tweeting</a> that it “feels like old times in the Independent in SF.”&nbsp;

Lucky fans who secured wristbands took to social media to express their glee, with one fan <a href="https://twitter.com/nbcjeanelle/status/1438711410716864519?s=20">tweeting</a> that it “feels like old times in the Independent in SF.”&nbsp;

That’s exactly the feeling Metallica super-fan Conde was looking for—a sign that things were looking up for the city’s live music scene, which had ceased to exist during the pandemic.

That’s exactly the feeling Metallica super-fan Conde was looking for—a sign that things were looking up for the city’s live music scene, which had ceased to exist during the pandemic.

Outside Lands attendees sing along to Rico Nasty’s music at the Twin Peaks Stage on October 30, 2021. | Photo by Camille Cohen

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/OSL-04.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-13198"/><figcaption>Outside Lands attendees sing along to Rico Nasty’s music at the Twin Peaks Stage on October 30, 2021. | Photo by Camille Cohen</figcaption></figure>

“I felt like I was legit in my happy place that night at the Independent,&#8221; Conde told Here/Say. &#8220;I think I had more fun selling the tickets to that show than I had at the show because it was so amazing, and people really showed up. I even had a doctor show up in his surgical garb.&#8221;

“I felt like I was legit in my happy place that night at the Independent," Conde told Here/Say. "I think I had more fun selling the tickets to that show than I had at the show because it was so amazing, and people really showed up. I even had a doctor show up in his surgical garb."

“I felt like I was legit in my happy place that night at the Independent,&#8221; Conde told Here/Say. &#8220;I think I had more fun selling the tickets to that show than I had at the show because it was so amazing, and people really showed up. I even had a doctor show up in his surgical garb.&#8221;

Now, Conde and her team are gearing up for their largest event, the 13th annual Outside Lands music festival, which kicks off this evening and runs through the weekend with six stages spread across Golden Gate Park&#8217;s Hellman Hollow, Speedway Meadow, and Marx Meadow.

Now, Conde and her team are gearing up for their largest event, the 13th annual Outside Lands music festival, which kicks off this evening and runs through the weekend with six stages spread across Golden Gate Park's Hellman Hollow, Speedway Meadow, and Marx Meadow.

Now, Conde and her team are gearing up for their largest event, the 13th annual Outside Lands music festival, which kicks off this evening and runs through the weekend with six stages spread across Golden Gate Park&#8217;s Hellman Hollow, Speedway Meadow, and Marx Meadow.

The festival is being held for the first time in the fall, after being canceled last year. And the  Halloween weekend promises some extra twists: Another Planet is encouraging participants to dress up for Halloween, though there are plenty of rules. Costumes such as headdresses that are deemed a form of cultural appropriation are not permitted; First responder costumes, such as firemen or health workers, are also prohibited, and toy weapons will be confiscated. Masks or costumes that cover your whole face are banned, as are hard-sided helmets and fake blood.

The festival is being held for the first time in the fall, after being canceled last year. And the Halloween weekend promises some extra twists: Another Planet is encouraging participants to dress up for Halloween, though there are plenty of rules. Costumes such as headdresses that are deemed a form of cultural appropriation are not permitted; First responder costumes, such as firemen or health workers, are also prohibited, and toy weapons will be confiscated. Masks or costumes that cover your whole face are banned, as are hard-sided helmets and fake blood.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/IMG_0753-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-13135"/><figcaption>Mary Conde, vice president of production at Another Planet Entertainment, at her San Francisco office. | Photo by Joel Aguero</figcaption></figure>

Conde said that otherwise the set-up of the event&nbsp;is similar to past festivals. Instead of a live comedy tent, the festival will host a DJ tent dedicated to summer. Other headliners include DJ Zoo, who grew up in the Sunset District.

Conde said that otherwise the set-up of the event&nbsp;is similar to past festivals. Instead of a live comedy tent, the festival will host a DJ tent dedicated to summer. Other headliners include DJ Zoo, who grew up in the Sunset District.

Conde told us she is still dealing with pandemic-related issues ranging from supply chain to staffing. But the biggest challenge has been organizing a festival at this scale at this time of year while school is in session. To mitigate traffic issues around schools in the immediate area, Conde has hired extra police officers to help parents pick up their kids around school zones.&nbsp;

Conde told us she is still dealing with pandemic-related issues ranging from supply chain to staffing. But the biggest challenge has been organizing a festival at this scale at this time of year while school is in session. To mitigate traffic issues around schools in the immediate area, Conde has hired extra police officers to help parents pick up their kids around school zones.&nbsp;

Conde and her team have also secured volunteers from SFPD on Halloween to enhance pedestrian safety for kids out trick or treating.&nbsp;

Conde and her team have also secured volunteers from SFPD on Halloween to enhance pedestrian safety for kids out trick or treating.&nbsp;

“I think when you start looking at the fact that it&#8217;s Friday and there is a major event happening kicking off the holiday weekend, it&#8217;s just a lot of activity happening in a small space,” said Conde.

“I think when you start looking at the fact that it's Friday and there is a major event happening kicking off the holiday weekend, it's just a lot of activity happening in a small space,” said Conde.

“I think when you start looking at the fact that it&#8217;s Friday and there is a major event happening kicking off the holiday weekend, it&#8217;s just a lot of activity happening in a small space,” said Conde.

Tanner Plott, dressed as Cruella de Vil, waits for the N Judah MUNI to take them to Outside Lands Music Festival alongside Carisa Ramage and Daniel Henry, who were collectively dressed up as “Jungle Cruise” on October 30, 2021. 

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/OSL-28.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-13204"/><figcaption>Tanner Plott, dressed as Cruella de Vil, waits for the N Judah to take them to Outside Lands Music Festival alongside Carisa Ramage and Daniel Henry, who were collectively dressed up as “Jungle Cruise” on October 30, 2021. | Photo by Camille Cohen</figcaption></figure>

The California Legislature is back: What to expect in 2022

Photo essay: The Fillmore’s BLM street mural rises again

Outside Lands organizer Mary Conde aims for unique Halloween revival

San Francisco Board of Supervisors kicks off $13B budget negotiations

At the Granada Hotel, a rush to house the homeless comes at the expense of elderly tenants

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The California Legislature is back: What to expect in 2022

Photo essay: The Fillmore’s BLM street mural rises again

Outside Lands organizer Mary Conde aims for unique Halloween revival

San Francisco Board of Supervisors kicks off $13B budget negotiations

At the Granada Hotel, a rush to house the homeless comes at the expense of elderly tenants