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Regional Spotlight
Supervisors Approve $3.8 Million Replacement for Magic Mountain Playground at Coyote Point
Supervisors Approve $3.8 Million Replacement for Magic Mountain Playground at Coyote Point | County of San Mateo, CA Supervisors Approve $3.8 Million Replacement for Magic Mountain Playground at Coyote Point March 24, 2026 Leer en español 阅读中文版 San Mateo – For two decades, the Magic Mountain Playground at Coyote Point Recreation Area has hosted countless kids’ birthday parties, playdates and family outings. That’s roughly 7,300 days of climbing, sliding and being well loved. And that doesn’t count the wear from the sun, rain and wind. Now, the playground known for its tall tower, swings and toothy purple sea creature will be replaced thanks to a $3.8 million project approved 5-0 Tuesday by the Board of Supervisors. Built in 2006, the playground no longer meets current safety and accessibility standards and is at the end of its useful life. The project will replace it with a modern, inclusive play space designed for children of all ages and abilities, along with improvements to surrounding areas to enhance access, circulation and the overall visitor experience. “This project is about more than replacing a playground,” Interim Parks Director Emma Gonzalez said. “It’s about creating a space that reflects what our community wants and needs. Our goal is to deliver a place where families feel welcome, can connect and create memories for years to come.” Located within the 149-acre Coyote Point Recreation Area, the playground is one of the County’s most popular amenities. The park attracts more than a half-million visitors annually and features picnic areas, walking trails, waterfront access, a marina and connections to the Bay Trail. The project is funded through a combination of federal Community Project Funding and local Measure K dollars, a voter-approved half-cent sales tax dedicated to supporting local priorities. “I grew up in the City of San Mateo and have so many memories of barbecues and family gatherings at this park,” said Board President Noelia Corzo, whose district includes Coyote Point. “Our community has come a long way, and this project reflects that progress. I’m excited to see more playground space and updated, safer facilities for families to enjoy.” Images show potential play structures and park features under consideration. To fill the recreation void during Magic Mountain’s closure, the County plans to install additional recreational features, including a temporary pump track. Community input has played a central role in shaping the project. More than 450 residents contributed feedback on desired features, layout and accessibility improvements, and additional outreach is planned for April in both English and Spanish through online and in-person opportunities. That feedback will continue to guide final design decisions. And good news for fans of the current park: numerous features, including the purple sea creatures, will be incorporated into the new design. Work is expected to begin this spring following the design phase, with construction anticipated to be complete by the end of the year. Coyote Point Recreation Area will remain open during construction, with temporary closures near the project site. Most park amenities, including picnic areas, trails, the marina, waterfront access and promenade, will remain available. While some parking near the playground will be limited, more than 900 of the park’s roughly 1,000 parking spaces will remain open. Media Contact Carla Schoof Communications Manager San Mateo County Parks Cell: 650-399-6431
Recent Community News
Supervisors Approve $3.8 Million Replacement for Magic Mountain Playground at Coyote Point
Supervisors Approve $3.8 Million Replacement for Magic Mountain Playground at Coyote Point | County of San Mateo, CA Supervisors Approve $3.8 Million Replacement for Magic Mountain Playground at Coyote Point March 24, 2026 Leer en español 阅读中文版 San Mateo – For two decades, the Magic Mountain Playground at Coyote Point Recreation Area has hosted countless kids’ birthday parties, playdates and family outings. That’s roughly 7,300 days of climbing, sliding and being well loved. And that doesn’t count the wear from the sun, rain and wind. Now, the playground known for its tall tower, swings and toothy purple sea creature will be replaced thanks to a $3.8 million project approved 5-0 Tuesday by the Board of Supervisors. Built in 2006, the playground no longer meets current safety and accessibility standards and is at the end of its useful life. The project will replace it with a modern, inclusive play space designed for children of all ages and abilities, along with improvements to surrounding areas to enhance access, circulation and the overall visitor experience. “This project is about more than replacing a playground,” Interim Parks Director Emma Gonzalez said. “It’s about creating a space that reflects what our community wants and needs. Our goal is to deliver a place where families feel welcome, can connect and create memories for years to come.” Located within the 149-acre Coyote Point Recreation Area, the playground is one of the County’s most popular amenities. The park attracts more than a half-million visitors annually and features picnic areas, walking trails, waterfront access, a marina and connections to the Bay Trail. The project is funded through a combination of federal Community Project Funding and local Measure K dollars, a voter-approved half-cent sales tax dedicated to supporting local priorities. “I grew up in the City of San Mateo and have so many memories of barbecues and family gatherings at this park,” said Board President Noelia Corzo, whose district includes Coyote Point. “Our community has come a long way, and this project reflects that progress. I’m excited to see more playground space and updated, safer facilities for families to enjoy.” Images show potential play structures and park features under consideration. To fill the recreation void during Magic Mountain’s closure, the County plans to install additional recreational features, including a temporary pump track. Community input has played a central role in shaping the project. More than 450 residents contributed feedback on desired features, layout and accessibility improvements, and additional outreach is planned for April in both English and Spanish through online and in-person opportunities. That feedback will continue to guide final design decisions. And good news for fans of the current park: numerous features, including the purple sea creatures, will be incorporated into the new design. Work is expected to begin this spring following the design phase, with construction anticipated to be complete by the end of the year. Coyote Point Recreation Area will remain open during construction, with temporary closures near the project site. Most park amenities, including picnic areas, trails, the marina, waterfront access and promenade, will remain available. While some parking near the playground will be limited, more than 900 of the park’s roughly 1,000 parking spaces will remain open. Media Contact Carla Schoof Communications Manager San Mateo County Parks Cell: 650-399-6431
County to Present Mid-Year Budget Update, Continues to Manage Fiscal Pressures
The San Mateo County Board of Supervisors will hear a mid-year budget update Tuesday, Feb. 10, at 9 a.m. at 500 County Center in Redwood City. Redwood City — Rising costs, funding uncertainties and growing demand for services continue to put pressure on San Mateo County’s budget. So far, careful planning has helped the County avoid a deficit. Staff will walk through the fiscal challenges facing the County when they present a mid-year budget update to the Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, Feb. 10. The report offers a snapshot of revenues and expenditures at the midpoint of the 2025-26 fiscal year and highlights issues likely to affect budget decisions in the months ahead. “A mid-year update gives us the chance to confirm where we are now and where we’re going,” County Executive Mike Callagy said. “It helps the Board and the public see what challenges are ahead and how we’re making thoughtful choices with limited resources to focus on what matters most.” The report describes what budget planners call “a complex and evolving fiscal environment,” as mandates continue to expand, often without corresponding funding. Against that backdrop, the update points to growing uncertainty in funding from the state and federal governments, with the most immediate potential effects on health and human services. Changes to Medi-Cal eligibility and benefits at the state level are expected to reduce coverage for some residents. County staff note that these shifts can increase costs for local governments as additional residents continue to seek care through County health clinics and other safety-net providers. As the report notes, “these federal and state actions increase fiscal uncertainty and underscore the need for conservative budgeting, ongoing monitoring, and contingency planning.” Staff will continue tracking developments and updating the Board as conditions change. The County’s budget supports a wide range of services that reach nearly all of San Mateo County’s approximately 750,000 residents, including public health clinics, environmental health inspections, social services, emergency response and support for children, seniors and families. The County has avoided operating in a structural deficit although staff caution that staying out of the red will require careful management and long-term planning. The mid-year budget update highlights continued uncertainty around the Vehicle License Fee Adjustment Amount, or VLFAA, as a significant fiscal risk for San Mateo County and its cities. There is a countywide VLFAA shortfall of $119 million for fiscal year 2024-25, with the gap projected to grow to $163 million in the current fiscal year, 2025-26. In addition, the state still owes $38 million from fiscal year 2023-24. The governor’s recently proposed state budget does not include funding to address the current $119 million VLFAA shortfall. The County has filed a lawsuit against the state to recover funds already owed and to clarify the state’s obligation to fully reimburse local governments going forward. The continued lack of funding in the proposed budget increases uncertainty for local governments and complicates long-term fiscal planning. Beyond the financial update, the Board will consider staffing additions in the District Attorney’s Office and Sheriff’s Office focused on human trafficking, and domestic violence and child abuse prevention and response. The positions would support a coordinated, multi-agency Human Trafficking Initiative, the establishment of a Family Justice Center to provide survivor-centered services, and additional staffing to address increased demand in the County’s crime laboratory. “These positions reflect a continued focus on protecting some of our most vulnerable residents,” Callagy said. “Strengthening the County’s response to human trafficking, domestic violence and child abuse helps ensure survivors can access coordinated support when they need it most.” Despite strong economic indicators, the high cost of living in San Mateo County continues to drive demand for safety-net services, as even relatively high household incomes are quickly consumed by everyday expenses. Childcare costs remain among the highest in the state, with the median annual cost of infant care exceeding $31,000. At the County’s median household income of about $160,700, more than half of households would spend roughly one-fifth of their income on infant care alone if they used childcare services. Housing costs present a similar challenge. While incomes are high by statewide standards, both homeownership and rental housing remain out of reach for many residents. As a result, demand for County safety-net services remains elevated. About 23,100 households — nearly 9 percent of all households in San Mateo County — rely on food assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. The findings are outlined in a mid-year update that will help guide Board discussions as the County balances service demands, fiscal risk, and long-term sustainability. The next major step in the budget process comes in June, when the Board of Supervisors is scheduled to hold hearings on the FY 2026–27 Recommended Budget. How to Participate The Board meeting takes place at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 10, on the first floor of 500 County Center, Redwood City. The mid-year budget staff report is available here. Details, including how to watch or participate and access live Spanish interpretation, are available on the agenda. Media Contact Effie Milionis Verducci Interim Director Strategic Communications [email protected] 650-407-4915
About 350 Volunteers to Take Part in One Day Homeless Count
Before Sunrise, They Looked for Neighbors and Strangers About 350 Volunteers to Take Part in One Day Homeless Count San Mateo County is gearing up for its annual Point-in-Time (PIT) homeless count, a vital effort to understand and address homelessness within the community. Scheduled for Friday, January 27th, the count will mobilize an estimated 350 volunteers across the county. These dedicated individuals will fan out before dawn to identify and survey people experiencing homelessness, providing crucial data that informs policy decisions and resource allocation. The PIT count is a federally mandated exercise that helps the County track trends in homelessness, assess the needs of the unsheltered population, and measure the effectiveness of programs aimed at providing housing and support services. Organizers emphasize the importance of volunteer participation in ensuring an accurate and comprehensive snapshot of homelessness in San Mateo County.
At Crystal Springs, New Markers Highlight Ohlone Role in Portolá Expedition
At Crystal Springs, New Markers Highlight Ohlone Role in Portolá Expedition | County of San Mateo, CA Skip to main content At Crystal Springs, New Markers Highlight Ohlone Role in Portolá Expedition April 27, 2026 Leer en español 阅读中文版 SAN MATEO — On a cool spring morning near Crystal Springs Dam, where deer moved through the hills above the reservoir, local officials gathered Friday to unveil interpretive panels and a historic marker highlighting the role of the Ramaytush Ohlone in guiding the 1769 expedition led by Gaspar de Portolá. The installation is part of the Ohlone-Portolá Heritage Trail, an ambitious effort to trace the expedition’s route through San Mateo County while recognizing the Ohlone who lived in the region for thousands of years before Spanish arrival. “To be able to see it, understand that moment and communicate it to the next generation is so important,” San Mateo County Supervisor Ray Mueller said at the dedication ceremony. “And to do it in a way that is respectful and accurate makes this incredibly meaningful.” The installation sits near the southern entrance to Sawyer Camp Trail, one of the county’s most popular recreation areas, where officials said they hope visitors will pause to read the panels. Local officials from numerous agencies gather Friday near Crystal Springs Dam to unveil panels and a marker highlighting the role of the Ramaytush Ohlone in the 1769 Portolá expedition. The ceremony marked a milestone in the yearslong project to document the roughly 90-mile route the Portolá expedition took through what is now San Mateo County. The Spanish party set out from what is now Southern California in search of Monterey Bay, overshooting its destination before becoming the first recorded Europeans to sight San Francisco Bay. State Sen. Josh Becker, who helped secure $500,000 in state funding to support the trail effort, said the project reflects an effort to tell a more complete history. “We’re fortunate to live in a place that recognizes its rich and complicated history, and is willing to memorialize both the original inhabitants of this land and the European explorers through efforts like this,” said Becker (D-Menlo Park). A passerby reads new interpretive panels Friday near Crystal Springs Dam. The panels are part of a multi-agency effort that began in the mid-2010s around the 250th anniversary of the expedition, updating existing historical markers to include Indigenous perspectives. The work has involved local Indigenous representatives along with County and regional agencies. “This is a meaningful step in helping tell a more complete story of this place,” said Emma Gonzalez, Interim Director of San Mateo County Parks. “We’re proud to work with our partners to share these stories in a way that is respectful and accessible to the community." The panels describe the expedition as a turning point in California history, noting both the encounter and the disruption that followed, part of an effort, officials said, to present a more complete account. As Parks crews set up for the event, a passer-by stopped by the panels and read quietly before moving on. Media Contacts Marisol Escalera Durani Chief of Staff, Office of Supervisor Ray Mueller 650-363-4569 [email protected] Charles Lawlor Office of State Sen. Josh Becker 916-651-4013 [email protected] Marshall Wilson Communications Officer, County of San Mateo 650-465-7289 [email protected] Jump back to top
Help Keep State Waterways Clean! Join Thousands of Volunteers for Annual California Coastal Cleanup Day on Sept. 19
Sacramento — Mark your calendars for California’s largest annual volunteer cleanup effort on Saturday, Sept. 19. Communities statewide will come together for the 42nd Annual California Coastal Cleanup Day to remove litter along beaches, rivers, creeks, bays, and wetlands. From veteran cleanup champions to students fulfilling their community service requirements, all volunteers are invited to roll up their sleeves and make local communities cleaner and healthier for all. Last year, more than 40,000 volunteers joined hundreds of clean-up events statewide to remove almost 400,000 pounds of trash from California shorelines, lakes, and waterways. To find and register for a 2026 event near you, visit the California Coastal Commission’s handy cleanup map at CoastalCleanupDay.org. "The desire for clean water and a litter-free Golden state connects all Californians, and Coastal Cleanup Day provides residents an opportunity to work shoulder-to-shoulder and experience first-hand how much can be achieved by working together for the greater good,” said Caltrans Director Dina El-Tawansy. “This year, the cleanups are even more important ahead of the strong El Niño storms expected this fall. The more trash and other pollutants we can remove now, the less will be swept untreated into our waterways and washed downstream to the ocean." Research has shown up to 80 percent of trash found on ocean beaches originates from inland sources. This data emphasizes why the cleanup day goes beyond cleaning up only coastal areas and includes inland waterways. "The passion and dedication of California volunteers year after year is what makes this movement so impactful,” said California Coastal Commission Executive Director Kate Huckelbridge. “Community by community and generation by generation, people step up to care for our coastlines and inland waters. We are deeply grateful for their support and invite everyone to be part of this vital effort on Sept. 19." As in past years, Caltrans’ Stormwater Program is co-sponsoring cleanup events in all 12 Caltrans districts. This includes: River City Waterway Alliance (RCWA) •Time: 8:30 – 11:30 a.m. • Robert T. Matsui Waterfront Park • 450 Jibboom St., Sacramento, CA 95811 Shorebird Park Nature Center •Time: 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. • Shorebird Nature Center •160 University Ave., Berkeley, CA 94710 Inland Empire Waterkeeper • Time: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. • Doty Trust Park • 5410 Golden Ave, Riverside, CA 92505 Orange County Coastkeeper • Time: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. • Location: Huntington Beach Tower 7 • Address: 21601 Pacific Coast Hwy, Huntington Beach, CA 92646 San Diego Coastkeeper •Time: 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. • Otay Valley Regional Park – Beyer Way • Address: 231 Beyer Way Chula Vista, CA 91911 Throughout the year, Caltrans’ Stormwater Program works to remind the public that keeping roadways, riverbanks, and coastlines clear of trash and other pollutants reduces the amount of untreated stormwater pollution entering our water systems. Caltrans encourages drivers to do their part year-round by properly securing truck loads and roof cargo and collecting trash in their cars to prevent it from blowing or spilling out of vehicles. Caltrans also led Governor Gavin Newsom’s $1.2 billion Clean CA program, a multiyear cleanup effort that removed more than 3.2 million cubic yards of trash, created thousands of jobs, and funded hundreds of local community projects to reclaim, transform and beautify public spaces. California volunteer groups can also assist with year-round litter collection activity through the highway department’s Adopt-A-Highway program. Adoptions usually span a two-mile stretch of roadside, and signs are included at no charge. For more information and to inquire about program participation, visit here. To learn more about Caltrans’ Stormwater Program and access a list of year-round tips that help keep California’s waterways cleaner, visit CleanWaterCA.com.
CLETS ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING
CLETS ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING Date: Tuesday, October 6, 2026 - 1:00pm Location: Folsom City Council Chambers Address: Folsom City Hall (first floor) 50 Natoma Street Folsom, CA 95630 Notes: The California Law Enforcement Telecommunications (CLETS) Advisory Committee (CAC) will meet to review applications for new service and upgrades of CLETS service and/or to discuss other issues of interest regarding the CLETS. Any individual with a disability seeking reasonable accommodation to attend or participate in the meeting, or to obtain materials or information on the meeting in an alternative format, should contact the CLETS Advisory Committee via the methods listed below at least five (5) business days before the meeting. CLETS Advisory Committee (CAC) 4949 Broadway, Sacramento, CA 95820 Telephone: (916) 210-4240 [email protected] Per agreement, with the exception of the agenda, documents pertaining to the meeting will not be handed out to the audience. Attendees are encouraged to download documents from the California Law Enforcement Web (CLEW) or Attorney General Websites. Attachments: CN-01 - New Service Staff Comments – Victor Valley High School District PD (San Bernardino County) CN-02 - New Service Staff Comments – Hacienda La Puente Unified School District PD (Los Angeles County) March 5, 2026 - CLETS Advisory Committee (CAC) Meeting Summary October 6, 2026 - CLETS Advisory Committee (CAC) Meeting Agenda
Roster of Approved Firearms Safety Devices
Roster of Firearm Safety Devices Certified for Sale | State of California - Department of Justice - Office of the Attorney General Skip to main content Roster of Firearm Safety Devices Certified for Sale Home Firearms Roster of Firearm Safety Devices Certified for Sale Recall Notices & Information October 19, 2023 - Information Regarding Nationwide Recall of Six Lock Boxes and One Safe on California’s Roster of Firearm Safety Devices Announced by U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission February 22, 2024 - Information Regarding Nationwide Recall of Three Lock Boxes on California’s Roster of Firearm Safety Devices announced by U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission June 27, 2024 - Information regarding nationwide recall of one lock box and one safe on California’s Roster of Firearm Safety Devices announced by U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission As of January 1, 2002, no firearm may be sold, transferred, or manufactured within California unless that firearm is accompanied by a DOJ-approved firearms safety device (California Penal Code section 23620, et seq). To search for Firearm Safety Devices certified for sale, click on the following: Search for a Safety Device Find Safety Devices Compatible with your Firearm The safety device requirement does not apply to the following: Persons who can demonstrate the purchase of a DOJ-approved safety device in the 30 days prior to taking possession of the firearm by presenting the device to the firearms dealer and providing the firearms dealer with a receipt showing the purchase date and model name of the device. The commerce of any firearm defined as an "antique firearm" pursuant to federal law. The commerce of any firearm intended to be used by a salaried, full-time peace officer for law enforcement purposes. Transfers of firearms to persons who demonstrate ownership of a qualifying gun safe. Ownership may be demonstrated by displaying to the firearms dealer: 1) A receipt indicating purchase of, or an affidavit, signed under penalty of perjury, stating that the purchaser owns a gun safe, and 2) An affidavit, signed under penalty of perjury, stating that the gun safe meets the standards set forth in DOJ regulations. Additional information on Safety Devices and Firearms Manufacturers. Firearms Safety Device Compatibility Chart Report of Descriptions and Devices Recently Added Handgun Models Find Safety Devices Compatible with your Firearm
Permit Exemption for Hazardous Trees – Extended to July 1, 2027
Permit Exemption for Hazardous Trees – Extended to July 1, 2027 | County of San Mateo, CA Skip to main content Learn how to protect yourself. Read More. Permit Exemption for Hazardous Trees – Extended to July 1, 2027 Only applicable to the Coastal Zone July 1, 2026 In advance of fire season and drought conditions, the Director of Planning and Building, in consultation with the State of California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection’s San Mateo–Santa Cruz Unit and the San Mateo County Resource Conservation District, has issued a Notice Regarding Permit Exemption for Tree Removal and a based on a request from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. As described in the notice, the County has waived permit requirements and fees for the responsible removal of hazardous trees that present a significant fire hazard risk and a hazard to life and personal property, as demonstrated by meeting the criteria and requirements listed below. Criteria The tree(s) are located within the unincorporated areas of the County of San Mateo (areas outside of any city limits). The tree(s) are of the following species: Eucalyptus, pines, acacia, tan oak, and bay trees. If assistance is needed in determining whether a tree is of a species that is included in this exemption, please contact the Resource Conservation District at [email protected] and send them a photo of the tree(s). Tree(s) are located: (1) within 100 feet of any habitable structure (including structures on properties adjacent to the property with the subject tree) or (2) within 30 feet of a public or private road necessary for emergency evacuations. Such tree(s) meeting the above criteria must be removed during the period of July 1, 2026, to July 1, 2027. No notice to the County is required. Requirements for Tree Removal Work Person(s) who remove such tree(s) must have written permission from the owner of the propert(ies) on which the tree trunk is located. Person(s) who remove such tree(s) shall be responsible for ensuring that all associated debris is chipped and retained on site and/or properly disposed of. Person(s) who remove such tree(s) shall be responsible for minimizing erosion and sedimentation. The following erosion control measures are recommended: Seed area of disturbance or use the chipped wood as chipped mulch over the area of disturbed soil. Make sure to keep much away from foundations to deter termites and other pests. Staked fiber rolls may be used around the area of disturbance. Maintain erosion control measures continuously between October 1 and April 30. Additional Erosion Control Options for Sloped Lots: Keep tree roots in place on a hillside. Inspect your downspouts. Check and redirect water flow. Check to see where your downspouts and surface runoff flow. Direct downspouts so water flows away from the slope. Disperse water onto lawns or landscaped areas as far from the slope as possible. Redirect runoff with a flexible pipe. Consider using flexible piping to transport down-spout runoff away from the slope. Consider using a dispersement tray at the end of the pipe to distribute the water over a larger area instead of concentrating it at one point. This can help deter erosion or pooling of water elsewhere in the yard. Note: It is illegal to discharge stormwater onto a property you do not own, including public property and storm drains. Ensure the stormwater stays on your property. Install weed barriers using highly-permeable landscape fabric across the slope face to ensure runoff can soak into the ground. If multiple rows are needed, place the first layer at the top of the slope and overlap the next row of fabric on top of the previous layer to allow water to flow under the downhill layers. This will prevent water saturation from concentrating at any one point. Plant new trees using native, non-invasive species. Biodegradable Straw Blankets on low to medium slopes (3:1 or 2:1) or biodegradable Jute Netting (up to 2:1 slope) to slow runoff and reduce erosion. If reseeding, use a native grass mix. The San Mateo County Significant Tree Regulations (“Regulations”) generally require that a property owner secure a permit before removing a “significant tree,” which is defined as any tree with a trunk that has a circumference of thirty-eight inches (38”) or more when measured at four and one-half feet (4 1/2’) vertically above the ground. However, Section 12,020.1(c) of these Regulations provides an exemption from the requirement to secure a permit to remove a significant tree when a specified official, including the Community Development Director or an Officer of the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, determines removal is necessary to “remove a hazard to life and personal property…”. Property owners must still apply for a permit before removing “significant” redwood, Douglas fir, oaks (other than tan oaks), maples, buckeyes, and other trees not covered by the exemption.
Automated Firearms System Personal Information Update
Automated Firearms System Personal Information Update | State of California - Department of Justice - Office of the Attorney General Skip to main content Automated Firearms System Personal Information Update Home Firearms Automated Firearms System Personal Information Update The Automated Firearms System is a repository of firearm records maintained by the Department, as established by Penal Code section 11106. The Automated Firearms System is populated by way of firearm purchases or transfers at a California licensed firearm dealer, registration of assault weapons (during specified registration periods), an individual’s report of firearm ownership to the Department, Carry Concealed Weapons Permit records, or records entered by law enforcement agencies. Commencing July 1, 2019, an individual will have the ability to electronically update one or more Automated Firearms System records through the California Firearms Application Reporting System (CFARS) to match his or her current name, date of birth, address, and California Driver License, California Identification Card, or Military Identification Number. Maintaining accurate personal information within the Automated Firearm System is critical if you plan to purchase ammunition by meeting the eligibility requirements established by Penal Code section 30370, subdivisions (c) and (d). If the information that is provided to the ammunition vendor does not match an entry in the Automated Firearms System database, the transaction must be denied. As such, it is important to ensure records are accurate. How do I update my Automated Firearm System record? To update your personal information on a record in the Automated Firearms System, log into your CFARS account, click on “Automated Firearms System (AFS) Personal Information Update,” and follow the instructions. If you do not have a CFARS account, you may create one by visiting https://cfars.doj.ca.gov. What information is needed to update an Automated Firearm System record? Current personal information. Full Name, Date of Birth, Residential Address, California Driver License/Identification Card Number, or Military Identification Number/Department of Defense Identification Number. Personal information at time of firearm purchase. Exact personal information as it was recorded on your Dealer Record of Sale or other firearms ownership record. Firearm currently recorded in your name. Type, Make, Model, Caliber and Serial Number information of one or more firearms currently recorded in the Automated Firearms System. Verifying documentation. If you are changing your name, date of birth, identification type or identification number, you must upload documents verifying the change. These documents require review and approval by the Department before changes can be updated on your record. Depending on what personal information will be updated, the following verification documents may be required: California Driver License/Identification Card Note: If you uploaded your military identification and active duty station orders and do not have a California driver license or identification card, you may upload your military identification card again. Marriage License Endorsed court order regarding restoration of former name Endorsed court order regarding name change Birth Certificate Military Orders Please refer to the Automated Firearms System Information Update Regulations for more information. Is there a fee associated with updating an Automated Firearm System record? There is no fee for updating your record. What can I expect after submission of the Automated Firearms System Personal Information Update request? Once your submission has been processed, the Department will send an email to the email address on file to let you know the status of your submission or to advise you to log on to CFARS to review notices from the Department. What if I don’t know the exact personal information or firearms information that was used when I purchased or transferred my firearm? You can request to obtain information on all firearms for which you are listed as the purchaser, transferee, or owner in the State of California. Based on the personal information you provide, the Department will conduct a diligent search of the Automated Firearms System and will provide you with the listing via mail. Once you receive the listing, you can reference the personal and firearm information that was recorded at the time the firearm was purchased or transferred. Thereafter, you can use the information to update your Automated Firearm System record. The Automated Firearms System Request for Firearm Records (BOF 053) application can be located at https://oag.ca.gov/firearms/forms. I know I have an Automated Firearms System record but I am not sure if my personal information is current. May I submit a new Firearm Ownership Report instead of updating my Automated Firearm System record? No. The Department will not process firearm ownership reports for firearms that are already recorded in your name. What if I don’t have a firearm record in the Automated Firearm System and I want to purchase ammunition? For more information about how you can meet the requirements to purchase ammunition without having an Automated Firearms System record, please visit the Ammunition Purchase Authorization webpage.
SB 452: Microstamping
Senate Bill (SB) 452, which was signed into law on September 26, 2023, amended California’s Unsafe Handgun Act by removing the microstamping requirement from Penal Code section 31910 and adding, under separate Penal Code provisions, new requirements related to microstamping components (specifically, sections 27531, 27532, 27533, 27534.1 and 27534.2). As detailed further below, this law provides a series of staggered implementation requirements for the California Department of Justice (DOJ) to investigate the technological viability of microstamping components, develop performance standards and licensing processes for entities that produce those components, and assess the commercial availability of microstamping components or microstamping-enabled firearms. It also provides a conditional mandate related to microstamping components in semiautomatic pistols sold or transferred in the state. Commencing January 1, 2028, this law will require licensed firearms dealers to ensure that semiautomatic pistols sold, offered for sale, exchanged, given, transferred, or delivered by those dealers in California are certified as “microstamping-enabled” by the pistol’s manufacturer, a licensed firearms dealer, or a gunsmith that serviced the pistol by installing a qualifying microstamping component (Pen. Code § 27533 and § 27531(c)). This requirement would apply to any semiautomatic pistol manufactured or delivered to a firearms dealer on or after January 1, 2028. However, this requirement takes effect only if DOJ has first made two separate determinations regarding: (1) the technological viability of microstamping components; and (2) the commercial availability of microstamping components and/or microstamping-enabled firearms. Technological Viability of Microstamping Components For the first of these determinations, SB 452 requires DOJ to “engage in an investigation to determine the technological viability of microstamping components producing microstamps on spent cartridge casings discharged by a firearm into which the microstamping component has been installed,” which includes soliciting input from relevant stakeholders (Pen. Code §27532(a)). On July 18, 2025, DOJ released a report finding that it is technologically viable for microstamping components (engraved firing pins) to imprint a unique microscopic array of characters, referred to as a “microstamp,” on spent cartridge cases discharged by a firearm into which the microstamping component has been installed. Commercial Availability of Microstamping Components Once DOJ has made a finding that microstamping components are technologically viable, it is required to: By September 1, 2025, provide “written guidance on performance standards for persons, associations, partnerships, corporations, or other entities engaged in the business of producing microstamping components.” (Pen. Code § 27532(b).) Those performance standards can be found in the California Code of Regulations, Title 11, Division 5, Chapter 16, Sections 4600-4601. By January 1, 2026, commence accepting applications for licenses for entities that produce microstamping components that meet DOJ’s performance standards. Entities seeking a license to produce microstamping components must submit samples to a DOJ-Certified Lab which will evaluate and conduct the testing of the semiautomatic pistol with the microstamping component pursuant to the standards outlined in California Code of Regulations, Title 11, Division 5, Chapter 16, Sections 4600-4601. Once the DOJ-Certified Lab has tested the microstamping components, it must submit BOF Form 130 Microstamping Performance Report to DOJ to evaluate whether the microstamping component meets the performance standards. BOF Form 130 will be accepted by email at [email protected]. These requirements are set forth in California Code of Regulations, Title 11, Division 5, Chapter 16, Section 4602. By July 1, 2026, DOJ must provide grants or enter into contracts with one or more entities licensed to produce microstamping components that meet DOJ’s performance standards to make those microstamping components available for sale or other distribution at a reasonable cost to firearm manufacturers, licensed firearms dealers, and gunsmiths engaged in the business of installing microstamping components in California. (Pen. Code § 27532(d).) By July 1, 2027, DOJ must determine: (1) whether microstamping components are available at commercially reasonable prices from licensees producing microstamping components, and (2) whether “options of microstamping-enabled firearms are readily available for purchase” in California. (Pen. Code § 27532(e).) Once DOJ determines that either or both of these criteria are met, DOJ must publish a list of all licensees producing microstamping components that meet the microstamping performance standards and “shall notify licensed firearms dealers, gunsmiths, and manufacturers operating within the State of California of the list of available microstamping component producers.” (Pen. Code § 27532(f).) Definitions of Key Terms can be found in Pen. Code § 27531. Additional Information: Attorney General Bonta Releases Report, Finds Firearm Microstamping Technology Viable Microstamping Technological Viability Report 2025 BOF 130 - Microstamping Performance Report California Code of Regulations
AB 28: Certificate of Registration
Assembly Bill 28 (AB 28) Commencing July 1, 2024, Assembly Bill 28 (AB 28), which was signed into law on September 26, 2023, requires all firearms dealers and ammunition vendors to obtain a Certificate of Registration with the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA). This Certificate of Registration requirement also applies to any federally licensed firearm manufacturer that engages in the retail sale of any firearms in California, including firearm precursor parts. There is no fee for this Firearm and Ammunition Excise Tax (FET) Certificate of Registration. The FET Certificate of Registration requirement is in addition to the existing requirement that firearms dealers and ammunition vendors maintain a valid seller’s permit, and that firearms manufacturers maintain a valid seller’s permit or resale certificate. Additionally, AB 28 states that the Department of Justice may revoke any ammunition vendor license or remove any firearms dealer or firearms manufacturer from any centralized list upon notification from CDTFA that CDTFA revoked the licensee’s certificate of registration or revoked or suspended the licensee’s seller’s permit. This webpage is intended to highlight only a few aspects of AB 28. Please review AB 28—including sections 36035 and 36036 of the Revenue and Taxation Code and sections 26700, 26705, and 30395 of the Penal Code—for further details, requirements, and relevant information. For information on obtaining the FET Certificate of Registration, seller’s permit, or resale certificate, you may visit the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration website at www.cdtfa.ca.gov and CDTFA’s “Tax Guide for Sellers of Firearm and Ammunition Products” website at www.cdtfa.ca.gov/industry/sellers-of-firearm-and-ammunition-products/. Should you have any other questions, please contact the Bureau of Firearms, Centralized List Unit at 916-210-2750 or via email at [email protected].
Ammunition Purchase Authorization Program
Effective July 1, 2019, persons seeking to purchase or transfer ammunition will have to undergo an eligibility check, and be approved by the Department, prior to the sale or transfer, except as otherwise specified. Departmental approval shall occur electronically through a licensed ammunition vendor. Pursuant to Penal Code sections 30352 and 30370, the Department will determine that a person is eligible to purchase or transfer ammunition if they meet one of the following requirements: The person has a current Certificate of Eligibility issued by the Department The person’s information matches an entry in the Automated Firearms System (name, date of birth, current address, and driver license or other government identification) and does not fall within a class of persons who are prohibited from owning or possessing ammunition. The Department shall make this determination by cross-referencing the Prohibited Armed Persons file (also known as the Armed and Prohibited Persons System). The person is not prohibited from purchasing or possessing ammunition. The Department determines eligibility based on a comprehensive review of its records (similar to a firearm eligibility check). Please note: this eligibility check requires a manual review of records by a Department analyst. As such, the Department may take longer to respond with a determination as to eligibility. Response times may take several days. Persons will have the ability to check the status of their eligibility check through the Ammunition Eligibility Check Status and Information page (available July 1, 2019). The person was approved by the Department to receive a firearm from the ammunition vendor, pursuant to Penal Code section 28220, if that vendor is a licensed firearm dealer, and the ammunition is delivered to the person in the same transaction as the firearm. In this scenario, the dealer will use the approved firearm eligibility check as the approval to purchase ammunition, and will submit the ammunition purchase to the Department during the delivery of the firearm. Establishing a Record in the Automated Firearms System The Automated Firearms System is a repository of firearm records maintained by the Department, as established by Penal Code section 11106. The Automated Firearms System is populated by way of firearm purchases or transfers at a California licensed firearm dealer, registration of assault weapons (during specified registration periods), an individual’s report of firearm ownership to the Department, Carry Concealed Weapons Permit records, or records entered by law enforcement agencies. To establish an Automated Firearms System record, you may take one of the following actions: Record ownership of a firearm you possess, but were not previously required to report, by submitting a Firearm Ownership Report to the Department. If your last firearm purchase of a long gun was prior to January 1, 2014, there is a possibility you may not have a record in the Automated Firearms System despite having purchased or transferred your firearm through a firearms dealer. The Department was statutorily prohibited from retaining information regarding sales of rifles or shotguns prior to January 1, 2014. As a result, records of rifles and shotguns in the Automated Firearms System prior to January 1, 2014, are limited to assault weapon registrations (Pen. Code, § 30500, et seq.), voluntary reports of ownership, and other records entered by the Department and California law enforcement agencies. You may submit the Firearm Ownership Report through the California Firearms Application Reporting System (CFARS). For more information regarding this process please visit the Firearms Reporting and Law Enforcement Release Application page. Record ownership through a purchase or transfer of a firearm from a licensed firearm dealer in California. Updating a Record in the Automated Firearm System Effective July 1, 2019, persons with an outdated Automated Firearms System record will have the ability to update personal information (name, date of birth, Identification number/type, and current address) on their Automated Firearm System record via the CFARS. Please refer to the Department’s Automated Firearms System Personal Information Update page for more information regarding this process. Ammunition Purchases or Transfers Regulations Ammunition Purchases Frequently Asked Questions
Laboratories Certified to Test Handguns
Handgun Testing Certified Laboratories | State of California - Department of Justice - Office of the Attorney General Skip to main content Handgun Testing Certified Laboratories Home Firearms Handgun Testing Certified Laboratories Pursuant to California Penal Code sections 31900-32110, effective January 1, 2001, no handgun model may be sold, transferred, manufactured, etc., in California unless that model has been tested by a certified laboratory and subsequently approved by the Department of Justice. * The following laboratories are currently certified by the Department of Justice to test handguns for safety/functionality related to this requirement: Element U.S. Space & Defense 4603B Compass Point Road Belcamp, MD 21017 (410) 297-8154 Professional Analysis and Consulting, Inc. 106 Clow International Parkway, Suite D Bolingbrook, IL 60490 (630) 466-4040 To obtain an application for DOJ Certification (Handgun Testing), please email the Bureau of Firearms at [email protected]
Public Rights Division, Section Descriptions
Division of Public Rights | State of California - Department of Justice - Office of the Attorney General Skip to main content Division of Public Rights Home Careers Career Opportunities Division of Public Rights The mission of the Division of Public Rights is to safeguard the state’s environment, lands, and natural resources; maintain competitive markets; prevent fraudulent business practices; protect consumers; monitor Indian and Gaming practices; preserve charitable assets, and protect the civil rights of all Californians. Our Division is organized into the following twelve sections: Antitrust Section enforces state and federal antitrust laws, including challenges to anticompetitive corporate mergers and acquisitions. Charitable Trusts Section has jurisdiction over charitable organizations, trustees, and fundraising professionals operating in California. Civil Rights Enforcement Section protects and promotes the civil rights of all people in California in a broad array of subject areas, including civil liberties, children's rights, constitutional policing, immigrant rights, and workers’ rights. Consumer Protection Section enforces laws that protect Californians against unlawful, unfair and deceptive trade practices, false advertising, and privacy violations. Corporate Fraud Section investigates and prosecutes cases involving energy, securities and commodities fraud, and fraud and other financial wrongdoing perpetrated against the state. It brings complex prosecutions under a wide range of statutes, including the Unfair Competition Law, the California False Claims Act, and Corporate Securities and Commodities Laws. Environment Section enforces state and federal environmental laws affecting California’s natural resources, its communities and public health. Healthcare Rights and Access Section safeguards and promotes the public’s right to equitable, affordable, quality healthcare, including defending women’s reproductive rights, preventing anticompetitive or unfair business activities, protecting patient privacy rights, and holding the tobacco industry accountable. Native American and Tribal Affairs Section consults with, advises, and represents the Governor and the State in connection with tribal-state compact negotiations and litigation. It advises and represents the Department of Justice Bureau of Gambling Control and the Gambling Control Commission in administrative and judicial proceedings and other state agencies on Indian law issues. Land Use and Conservation Section handles litigation involving lands owned and administered by the state, advises and handles litigation for agencies that regulate natural resources, and advises and handles litigation for land conservancies. Natural Resources Section represents state agencies responsible for enforcing and administering laws and programs that protect California’s environment and natural resources. Police Practices Section The Police Practices Section conducts civil investigations into whether a law enforcement agency has engaged in a pattern and practice of violating state or federal law. The Section is also charged through Assembly Bill 1506, as enacted in Government Code section 12525, subdivision (c)(1), to conduct police shooting reviews and reviews of law enforcement agencies use of force policies. Worker Rights and Fair Labor Section defends California workers and legitimate competition in the State by investigating and prosecuting employers and others who violate minimum labor standards, endanger workplace health and safety, or otherwise subject workers to unlawful working conditions. The unit targets and seeks to remedy systemic unlawful business practices to improve the lives of working Californians and their families.
Information on the Law Enforcement Release Program
Information on the Law Enforcement Release Program | State of California - Department of Justice - Office of the Attorney General Skip to main content Information on the Law Enforcement Release Program Home Firearms Information on the Law Enforcement Release Program Attention Beginning December 1, 2021, applicants must electronically submit a Law Enforcement Release (LER) application for the return of firearm(s), ammunition, and/or ammunition feeding device(s) via the California Firearms Application Reporting System (CFARS). Applicants that do not already have a CFARS account will be required to create an account in order to directly communicate with the Department and to check the status of an application. The Department will no longer accept paper LER application (BOF 119) submissions. Paper applications received via US mail, UPS, FedEx., etc., postmarked after November 30, 2021, will be returned unprocessed with instructions on how to submit the application via CFARS. For more information about CFARS, please visit the Firearms Reporting & Law Enforcement Release Application webpage. The Law Enforcement Release process requires any person who claims title to any firearm, ammunition or ammunition feeding device that is in the custody or control of a court or law enforcement agency and who wishes to have the aforementioned items returned, to submit a LER Application form to the California Department of Justice (the Department) to determine eligibility to possess a firearm, ammunition and/or ammunition feeding device. (Penal Code section 33850) LER Application Submission Process Individuals seeking the return of a firearm, ammunition and/or ammunition feeding device that is in the custody or control of a court or law enforcement agency must submit a LER Application along with the appropriate fees to the Department. Additionally, if an individual is seeking the return of a long gun purchased prior to January 1, 2014 which has not been subsequently recorded in their name by either a self reporting application, or registered as an assault weapon or .50 BMG rifle, should submit a Firearms Ownership Report application (BOF 4542A), pdf , along with the appropriate fees. An eligibility check will be conducted to determine if the applicant is lawfully eligible to possess firearms, ammunition and/or ammunition feeding devices. A notice of the results will be sent to the applicant via U.S. mail. The notice must be presented to the court or law enforcement agency within thirty (30) days of the date of the notice. Notices over 30 days are considered expired. If you allow your notice to expire, you will need to submit a new application and fees to initiate a new eligibility check.
Public Notice - Zastava SKS Carbines are Considered Destructive Devices
Public Notice - Zastava SKS Carbines Zastava SKS Carbines 59/66 are considered destructive devices in California and therefore may not be purchased, possessed, imported, or kept for sale without a permit. These weapons were incorporated into the Yugoslavian Army in 1966 and are constructed with grenade launchers on them. The factory brochure claims that the grenade launcher launches a 22 mm (approximately .80 caliber) grenade. Based on the information in the factory brochure, this grenade launcher is a destructive device as defined in California Penal Code section 16460. Possession of such a device can be a felony.
Civil Law Division, Section Descriptions
Division of Civil Law | State of California - Department of Justice - Office of the Attorney General Skip to main content Division of Civil Law Home Careers Career Opportunities Division of Civil Law The Deputy Attorneys General within the Civil Division provide skilled legal services to state agencies and officials in trial and appellate litigation, prosecuting and defending matters in state and federal courts and before various administrative tribunals. The Civil Division is organized into the following nine sections: Business Litigation Cannabis Control Correctional Law Employment Litigation Government Law Health, Education, and Welfare Health Quality Enforcement Licensing Tort and Condemnation
Transporting Firearms in California
Transporting Firearms in California Home Firearms Transporting Firearms in California HANDGUNS Pursuant to California Penal Code section 25610, a United States citizen over 18 years of age who is not prohibited from firearm possession, and who resides or is temporarily in California, may transport by motor vehicle any handgun provided it is unloaded and locked in the vehicle’s trunk or in a locked container. Furthermore, the handgun must be carried directly to or from any motor vehicle for any lawful purpose and, while being carried must be contained within a locked container. Pursuant to California Penal Code section 16850, the term "locked container" means a secure container that is fully enclosed and locked by a padlock, key lock, combination lock, or similar locking device. This includes the trunk of a motor vehicle, but does not include the utility or glove compartment. SHOTGUNS AND RIFLES Nonconcealable firearms (shotguns and rifles) are not generally covered within the provisions of California Penal Code section 25400 and therefore are not required to be transported in a locked container. However, as with any firearm, nonconcealable firearms must be unloaded while they are being transported. REGISTERED ASSAULT WEAPONS California Penal Code section 30945, subdivision (g) provides that registered assault weapons may be transported only between specified locations and must be unloaded and stored in a locked container when transported. Pursuant to California Penal Code section 16850, the term "locked container" means a secure container that is fully enclosed and locked by a padlock, key lock, combination lock, or similar locking device. This includes the trunk of a motor vehicle, but does not include the utility or glove compartment.
Criminal Law Division, Section Descriptions
Division of Criminal Law | State of California - Department of Justice - Office of the Attorney General Skip to main content Division of Criminal Law Home Careers Career Opportunities Division of Criminal Law The mission of the Division of Criminal Law is to uphold the Attorney General’s constitutional responsibility to represent the People of California in criminal cases. Our Division is organized into the following four sections: Appeals, Writs and Trials handles post-conviction proceedings, including prosecuting felony criminal appeals in state court and representing the state in habeas corpus cases brought in federal court. Deputies also handle criminal investigations, conduct evidentiary hearings, and prosecute felonies in cases in which the local district attorney has been recused. Deputies appear regularly in the California Court of Appeal, California Supreme Court, United States District Court, and Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. Correctional Writs & Appeals handles post-conviction proceedings for the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, the Board of Parole Hearings, and the Governor. This section defends the policies of the state’s prison system and ensures convicted felons serve their sentences. Deputies also litigate challenges to conditions of confinement and parole in habeas corpus, mandate, and appellate proceedings brought by incarcerated persons and parolees. They appear regularly in the superior and appellate courts, including the California Supreme Court, and, to a more limited extent, the United States District Courts and the Ninth Circuit. Cybercrime Section investigates and prosecutes multi-jurisdictional cases involving identity theft, cyber-crime, and criminal activity involving the use of electronic devices or networks. The Section also participates in regional high-tech task forces and provides training and support to local agencies on technology-related crime issues. Special Prosecutions Section investigates and prosecutes complex criminal cases occurring in California, primarily related to financial, securities, mortgage, and environmental fraud; public corruption, including violations of California’s Political Reform Act; “underground economy” offenses, including tax and revenue fraud and counterfeiting; and human trafficking. Vertical teams of prosecutors, investigators, auditors, and paralegals often work with federal and local authorities on cases involving multi-jurisdictional criminal activity.
Proposition 65 Enforcement Reporting
Proposition 65 | State of California - Department of Justice - Office of the Attorney General Skip to main content Proposition 65 Home Environment & Public Health Proposition 65 The Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986 ("Proposition 65") is an initiative statute that protects public health by reducing exposures to toxic chemicals in two principal ways. First, it outlaws discharges of certain toxic chemicals into sources of drinking water. Second, it requires businesses to provide clear and reasonable warnings prior to exposing persons to certain toxic chemicals. The Attorney General’s Prop 65 Enforcement Actions Are Protecting Vulnerable Populations And Minorities The Attorney General is the State’s principal public prosecutor of Proposition 65. Through its enforcement of the second, "right-to-know" prong of Proposition 65, the Attorney General’s Office has a history of compelling companies to remove or to reduce the harmful chemicals in their products and in their air and water emissions as an alternative to providing warnings. The Attorney General is often joined by District Attorneys, City Attorneys and private enforcers in brining Proposition 65 actions." The Attorney General’s Office has a longstanding focus on products that impact vulnerable populations, such as children, and minorities. In addition, the Attorney General strives for comprehensive investigations and enforcement that address systemic violations across an industry or product area, as in the examples below. Lead in Mexican Candy Imported Mexican candy products, which had become highly popular throughout California, contained high levels of lead, resulting in elevated blood lead levels in some children. The Attorney General sued thirty-four Mexican style candy companies, and arranged to have an independent food quality auditor inspect these companies’ facilities in Mexico. The auditor found that the culprit was the unwashed chilis used for the chili powder ingredient, and he devised a set of good manufacturing practices (GMPs), which included using washed chili, careful sourcing of other ingredients, and routine facility inspections to remove sources of lead. All of the defendants signed a settlement agreement which required them to retain an independent food processing auditor (approved by Attorney General), implement the GMPs, stop buying unwashed chilis, and achieve lead levels below 100 ppb. The settlement resulted in an across-the-board reduction of lead levels in Mexican style candy products. Lead in Children’s’ Jewelry After receiving 60-day notices from three private enforcers alleging exposures to lead in jewelry, the Attorney General’s Office initiated an investigation. The investigation revealed that lead occurred primarily in jewelry components made out of plastic and plated metal, including jewelry intended for young children. The Attorney General sued approximately 30 companies that sell jewelry, and later sued some of their suppliers that manufacture the jewelry, for violations of Proposition 65 and the Unfair Competition Law. After a yearlong negotiation, defendants agreed upon comprehensive lead standards for jewelry. The standards are stricter for children’s jewelry. California subsequently passed a law that applies the lead standards to all jewelry sold in California. (HSC §§ 25214.1 et seq.) Brazilian Blowout Brazilian Blowout advertised its product as "Formaldehyde Free." In fact, the Attorney General’s testing showed that it contained liquid formaldehyde (methylene glycol) at levels ranging to from 6% to 10%, and stylists and their customers were exposed to formaldehyde gas (which is a listed as a carcinogen under Proposition 65) when the product was applied. The Attorney General’s settlement required Brazilian Blowout to stop its "formaldehyde free" advertising, provide truthful warnings on its products ("this product releases formaldehyde gas when used as directed") and reduce the formaldehyde levels in the products. Ginger Candy Crystalized ginger candies (popular with pregnant women) had lead levels in excess of 100 ppb, ranging up to 700 ppb. The Attorney General sued the main retailers and manufacturers, and the settlement required these companies to reduce the lead levels to 40 ppb and to hire food quality auditors to implement protocols to reduce the lead content in the candies to the lowest feasible levels. Lead in Artificial Turf Many popular brands of artificial turf had high lead levels of lead (3,000 to 17,000 ppm). The Attorney General’s experts determined that younger children who played on the turf were exposed to lead in excess of the Proposition 65 warning level from hand-to-mouth contact. As a result of the Attorney General’s suit, the main manufacturers of artificial turf (AstroTurf, Field Turf, and Beaulieu) agreed to reduce the lead content to 50 ppm or lower. Lead in Mexican Soda Mexican Coke, Pepsi, Crush and Squirt products were popular in California because they were sweetened with sugar rather than corn syrup. They were sold in returnable bottles which require applied ceramic labels strong enough to withstand repeated washings. These labels had high lead content. Consumers were exposed to the lead by hand-to-mouth contact and when the lead found its way into the bottles during the washing process. As a result of the Attorney General’s Proposition 65 action, all three companies immediately switched to lead fee coatings, phased out all leaded bottles throughout Mexico and retained food quality auditors to ensure there were no additional sources of lead contamination in their facilities. Attorney General Review Of Private Actions Proposition 65 also contains a private enforcement mechanism. Individuals and organizations, such as environmental groups, can sue to correct alleged violations. The Attorney General reviews private actions and settlements, and may even intervene when the private enforcement does not appear to be in the public interest. The Attorney General publishes regulations which provide guidance to plaintiffs and defendants and describe the submission and review process. The Attorney General’s Office maintains an on-line database of Proposition 65 Enforcement Reporting. The database includes information on private party actions and settlements. Proposition 65 Enforcement Reporting
County to Present Mid-Year Budget Update, Continues to Manage Fiscal Pressures
The San Mateo County Board of Supervisors will hear a mid-year budget update Tuesday, Feb. 10, at 9 a.m. at 500 County Center in Redwood City. Redwood City — Rising costs, funding uncertainties and growing demand for services continue to put pressure on San Mateo County’s budget. So far, careful planning has helped the County avoid a deficit. Staff will walk through the fiscal challenges facing the County when they present a mid-year budget update to the Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, Feb. 10. The report offers a snapshot of revenues and expenditures at the midpoint of the 2025-26 fiscal year and highlights issues likely to affect budget decisions in the months ahead. “A mid-year update gives us the chance to confirm where we are now and where we’re going,” County Executive Mike Callagy said. “It helps the Board and the public see what challenges are ahead and how we’re making thoughtful choices with limited resources to focus on what matters most.” The report describes what budget planners call “a complex and evolving fiscal environment,” as mandates continue to expand, often without corresponding funding. Against that backdrop, the update points to growing uncertainty in funding from the state and federal governments, with the most immediate potential effects on health and human services. Changes to Medi-Cal eligibility and benefits at the state level are expected to reduce coverage for some residents. County staff note that these shifts can increase costs for local governments as additional residents continue to seek care through County health clinics and other safety-net providers. As the report notes, “these federal and state actions increase fiscal uncertainty and underscore the need for conservative budgeting, ongoing monitoring, and contingency planning.” Staff will continue tracking developments and updating the Board as conditions change. The County’s budget supports a wide range of services that reach nearly all of San Mateo County’s approximately 750,000 residents, including public health clinics, environmental health inspections, social services, emergency response and support for children, seniors and families. The County has avoided operating in a structural deficit although staff caution that staying out of the red will require careful management and long-term planning. The mid-year budget update highlights continued uncertainty around the Vehicle License Fee Adjustment Amount, or VLFAA, as a significant fiscal risk for San Mateo County and its cities. There is a countywide VLFAA shortfall of $119 million for fiscal year 2024-25, with the gap projected to grow to $163 million in the current fiscal year, 2025-26. In addition, the state still owes $38 million from fiscal year 2023-24. The governor’s recently proposed state budget does not include funding to address the current $119 million VLFAA shortfall. The County has filed a lawsuit against the state to recover funds already owed and to clarify the state’s obligation to fully reimburse local governments going forward. The continued lack of funding in the proposed budget increases uncertainty for local governments and complicates long-term fiscal planning. Beyond the financial update, the Board will consider staffing additions in the District Attorney’s Office and Sheriff’s Office focused on human trafficking, and domestic violence and child abuse prevention and response. The positions would support a coordinated, multi-agency Human Trafficking Initiative, the establishment of a Family Justice Center to provide survivor-centered services, and additional staffing to address increased demand in the County’s crime laboratory. “These positions reflect a continued focus on protecting some of our most vulnerable residents,” Callagy said. “Strengthening the County’s response to human trafficking, domestic violence and child abuse helps ensure survivors can access coordinated support when they need it most.” Despite strong economic indicators, the high cost of living in San Mateo County continues to drive demand for safety-net services, as even relatively high household incomes are quickly consumed by everyday expenses. Childcare costs remain among the highest in the state, with the median annual cost of infant care exceeding $31,000. At the County’s median household income of about $160,700, more than half of households would spend roughly one-fifth of their income on infant care alone if they used childcare services. Housing costs present a similar challenge. While incomes are high by statewide standards, both homeownership and rental housing remain out of reach for many residents. As a result, demand for County safety-net services remains elevated. About 23,100 households — nearly 9 percent of all households in San Mateo County — rely on food assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. The findings are outlined in a mid-year update that will help guide Board discussions as the County balances service demands, fiscal risk, and long-term sustainability. The next major step in the budget process comes in June, when the Board of Supervisors is scheduled to hold hearings on the FY 2026–27 Recommended Budget. How to Participate The Board meeting takes place at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 10, on the first floor of 500 County Center, Redwood City. The mid-year budget staff report is available here. Details, including how to watch or participate and access live Spanish interpretation, are available on the agenda. Media Contact Effie Milionis Verducci Interim Director Strategic Communications [email protected] 650-407-4915
About 350 Volunteers to Take Part in One Day Homeless Count
Before Sunrise, They Looked for Neighbors and Strangers About 350 Volunteers to Take Part in One Day Homeless Count San Mateo County is gearing up for its annual Point-in-Time (PIT) homeless count, a vital effort to understand and address homelessness within the community. Scheduled for Friday, January 27th, the count will mobilize an estimated 350 volunteers across the county. These dedicated individuals will fan out before dawn to identify and survey people experiencing homelessness, providing crucial data that informs policy decisions and resource allocation. The PIT count is a federally mandated exercise that helps the County track trends in homelessness, assess the needs of the unsheltered population, and measure the effectiveness of programs aimed at providing housing and support services. Organizers emphasize the importance of volunteer participation in ensuring an accurate and comprehensive snapshot of homelessness in San Mateo County.
At Crystal Springs, New Markers Highlight Ohlone Role in Portolá Expedition
At Crystal Springs, New Markers Highlight Ohlone Role in Portolá Expedition | County of San Mateo, CA Skip to main content At Crystal Springs, New Markers Highlight Ohlone Role in Portolá Expedition April 27, 2026 Leer en español 阅读中文版 SAN MATEO — On a cool spring morning near Crystal Springs Dam, where deer moved through the hills above the reservoir, local officials gathered Friday to unveil interpretive panels and a historic marker highlighting the role of the Ramaytush Ohlone in guiding the 1769 expedition led by Gaspar de Portolá. The installation is part of the Ohlone-Portolá Heritage Trail, an ambitious effort to trace the expedition’s route through San Mateo County while recognizing the Ohlone who lived in the region for thousands of years before Spanish arrival. “To be able to see it, understand that moment and communicate it to the next generation is so important,” San Mateo County Supervisor Ray Mueller said at the dedication ceremony. “And to do it in a way that is respectful and accurate makes this incredibly meaningful.” The installation sits near the southern entrance to Sawyer Camp Trail, one of the county’s most popular recreation areas, where officials said they hope visitors will pause to read the panels. Local officials from numerous agencies gather Friday near Crystal Springs Dam to unveil panels and a marker highlighting the role of the Ramaytush Ohlone in the 1769 Portolá expedition. The ceremony marked a milestone in the yearslong project to document the roughly 90-mile route the Portolá expedition took through what is now San Mateo County. The Spanish party set out from what is now Southern California in search of Monterey Bay, overshooting its destination before becoming the first recorded Europeans to sight San Francisco Bay. State Sen. Josh Becker, who helped secure $500,000 in state funding to support the trail effort, said the project reflects an effort to tell a more complete history. “We’re fortunate to live in a place that recognizes its rich and complicated history, and is willing to memorialize both the original inhabitants of this land and the European explorers through efforts like this,” said Becker (D-Menlo Park). A passerby reads new interpretive panels Friday near Crystal Springs Dam. The panels are part of a multi-agency effort that began in the mid-2010s around the 250th anniversary of the expedition, updating existing historical markers to include Indigenous perspectives. The work has involved local Indigenous representatives along with County and regional agencies. “This is a meaningful step in helping tell a more complete story of this place,” said Emma Gonzalez, Interim Director of San Mateo County Parks. “We’re proud to work with our partners to share these stories in a way that is respectful and accessible to the community." The panels describe the expedition as a turning point in California history, noting both the encounter and the disruption that followed, part of an effort, officials said, to present a more complete account. As Parks crews set up for the event, a passer-by stopped by the panels and read quietly before moving on. Media Contacts Marisol Escalera Durani Chief of Staff, Office of Supervisor Ray Mueller 650-363-4569 [email protected] Charles Lawlor Office of State Sen. Josh Becker 916-651-4013 [email protected] Marshall Wilson Communications Officer, County of San Mateo 650-465-7289 [email protected] Jump back to top
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