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Today: May 15, 2025
Today: May 15, 2025
Sowjanya Pedada

Sowjanya Pedada

Staff Writer

Sowjanya is a passionate writer and an avid reader. She holds an MBA in Agribusiness Management and now works as a content writer with the LA Post. She loves to play with words and hopes to make a difference in the world through her narratives. Apart from writing, she is interested in reading fiction novels and doing craftwork.

Latest From Sowjanya Pedada

News|US

Trump administration joins defense of mifepristone amid abortion pill debate

In an unexpected political alliance, leaders from both parties are rallying behind mifepristone’s Food and Drug Administration approval as an ongoing legal battle threatens access to the abortion pill. President Donald Trump’s legal team surprised many by continuing former President Joe Biden administration’s defense of mifepristone’s FDA approval, urging courts to dismiss a lawsuit from conservative states that seek to sharply restrict its availability. While Republicans have traditionally taken a strong anti-abortion stance, the wide acceptance of medication abortion has created political and practical complications. Trump’s lawyers argued the FDA had appropriately followed the law when approving mifepristone over two

Trump administration joins defense of mifepristone amid abortion pill debate
Local|News

California tourism hits new record as officials warn of downturn

Tourism spending in California reached an all-time high of $157.3 billion in 2024, rising 3% from the previous year’s record, according to figures released Monday by Gov. Gavin Newsom and Visit California. State tourism officials simultaneously cautioned about projections showing potential declines in 2025. Forecasts predict a 1% drop in total visitors and a steeper 9.2% reduction in international tourism. Officials have labeled this anticipated decrease a “Trump Slump,” linking it to federal policies and global perceptions about traveling to the U.S. The economic impact report showed the tourism industry created 1.2 million jobs statewide last year and generated $12.6

California tourism hits new record as officials warn of downturn
US|News

Will a proposed $1K asylum fee be a barrier for vulnerable migrants?

House Republicans have unveiled a plan to require migrants applying for asylum to pay a $1,000 fee — a change immigrant advocates warn could block the most desperate from finding refuge.  While proponents frame the fee as a way to manage strained resources and prevent abuse, critics argue it targets people already fleeing danger and poverty, placing safety even further out of reach, according to the New York Times. Currently, seeking asylum in the U.S. is free. This longstanding policy reflects a belief that those escaping violence or persecution shouldn’t be priced out of protection. The new proposal would reverse

Will a proposed $1K asylum fee be a barrier for vulnerable migrants?
News|US

Peace Corps staff cuts threaten vital support for volunteers

In a move that alarmed current and former volunteers alike, the Peace Corps is bracing for significant staff reductions as a cost-cutting review led by Elon Musk’s DOGE initiative bears down on the historic organization.  Critics warn these cuts could erode vital support systems volunteers rely on while serving overseas, often in remote and challenging conditions. The Peace Corps – created in 1961 under President John F. Kennedy’s administration – has long symbolized America’s commitment to global goodwill. Thousands of Americans leave their homes each year to help with health care, education, agriculture, and youth development projects in over 60

Peace Corps staff cuts threaten vital support for volunteers
Local|News

Earthquake early warning app surges to 4M downloads

Gov. Gavin Newsom announced the state’s earthquake early warning application, the MyShake app, has reached over four million downloads, equivalent to more than 10% of California’s population. MyShake notifies users before earthquake shaking begins through a statewide network of ground motion sensors that detect seismic activity. “MyShake provides Californians with life-saving seconds before earthquakes strike. This milestone is a proud moment for California, and a reminder that preparedness is a continuous effort,” Newsom said. Launched in 2019, the California Earthquake Early Warning System has grown considerably. Since the program’s inception, over 60% of its 1,046 sensors have been installed. These

Earthquake early warning app surges to 4M downloads
Local|News

L.A. firefighters fight for fair compensation amid wildfire struggles

After battling some of the fiercest wildfires in the history of Los Angeles County, local first responders are pushing for better pay and working conditions. They are frustrated by years of budget cuts that left them dangerously short-staffed and under-resourced during the crisis, reported by the L.A. Times. This past wildfire season torched over 40,000 acres, destroyed more than 15,000 structures, and claimed at least 27 lives, according to reports from emergency services and wildfire response teams. More than 16,000 first responders were called in, many working marathon shifts with little sleep and facing fires. Behind their demands lies a

L.A. firefighters fight for fair compensation amid wildfire struggles
Local

California bar exam faces backlash over AI-generated questions

The State Bar of California is under fire after disclosing it used artificial intelligence to draft some questions for the February 2025 bar exam without informing test takers or stakeholders. This decision has triggered backlash from legal educators, students, and the California Supreme Court, the Los Angeles Times reported. Out of the 171 multiple-choice questions on the exam, 23 were developed with AI assistance by ACS Ventures, a consulting firm hired by the Bar. The remaining questions were a mix of a first-year law student exam and Kaplan Exam Services. This use of AI was not disclosed to candidates until

California bar exam faces backlash over AI-generated questions
Health

FDA plans to phase out synthetic food dyes for children’s health

In a move aimed at safeguarding children’s health, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, in collaboration with the Department of Health and Human Services, announced plans to phase out petroleum-based synthetic food dyes from the nation’s food supply as soon as possible.  This initiative targets eight widely used artificial colorings – including Red No. 3, Red No. 40, Yellow No. 5, Yellow No. 6, Blue No. 1, Blue No. 2, Green No. 3, and Orange B – which are prevalent in numerous processed foods and beverages. The decision follows mounting scientific evidence linking these dyes to adverse health effects in

FDA plans to phase out synthetic food dyes for children’s health
Local

L.A. homeowners sue insurance companies over wildfire coverage

Homeowners in Los Angeles are suing major insurance companies, claiming the companies worked together to cancel fire insurance after a series of destructive wildfires. The lawsuits say 25 insurance companies, including State Farm, stopped offering coverage in high-risk areas, which forced many people to buy expensive insurance from the state-run FAIR Plan instead. The lawsuits were filed in April 2025, a few months after wildfires in January burned nearly 18,000 buildings and killed at least 30 people in L.A. Homeowners who lost everything are accusing the insurance companies of breaking the law by acting together to stop selling or renewing

L.A. homeowners sue insurance companies over wildfire coverage
Local

Cost of living is top concern in L.A. residents' quality of life: UCLA study

Los Angeles County residents cite the cost of living as their primary concern in the latest annual quality of life assessment, according to University of California, Los Angeles survey findings. The UCLA Quality of Life Index recorded an overall satisfaction score of 53 out of 100, matching last year’s score as the lowest in the assessment’s 10-year history. “The overall satisfaction score on our QLI index is stuck for one main reason — the impact of the high cost of living,” Paul Maslin, public opinion expert at FM3 Research, said. The project, conducted by the L.A. Initiative at UCLA’s Luskin

Cost of living is top concern in L.A. residents' quality of life: UCLA study
Local

L.A. sees decline in parking enforcement, fines

Los Angeles is experiencing a decline in parking enforcement, raising concerns over its potential impact on public safety, fiscal stability, and civic order. With fewer citations being issued and revenue losses adding up, city management may face a silent crisis that risks eroding infrastructure and public trust. Parking citation numbers have dropped significantly since 2019, according to recent reports. The L.A. Department of Transportation issued about 2.1 million citations in fiscal year 2023 — down nearly 40% from the pre-pandemic average of over 3.5 million. This fall directly correlates to reduced street oversight and accountability. This enforcement decline has translated

L.A. sees decline in parking enforcement, fines
Local

Los Angeles claims 'Right to Counsel' for low-income tenants

In a historic move to address housing instability, the Los Angeles City Council unanimously passed the long-anticipated “Right to Counsel” ordinance. The policy guarantees free legal representation to low-income tenants facing eviction, marking a major shift in how the city tackles its housing and homelessness crisis. The ordinance ensures legal counsel for renters earning below 80% of the area median income—approximately $77,700 for individuals and $110,950 for a family of four. While celebrated as a milestone by housing advocates, implementation will be phased, with full access expected to take years as the city ramps up funding and staffing. Only around

Los Angeles claims 'Right to Counsel' for low-income tenants
Health

Puberty rewires brain in genetic condition linked to autism

A genetic condition associated with autism undergoes significant brain connectivity changes during puberty, potentially explaining its link to psychiatric disorders, according to new research from University of California, Los Angeles Health and international collaborators. Scientists found that chromosome 22q11.2 deletion syndrome – which is caused by missing genetic material on chromosome 22– produces dramatic shifts in brain connectivity patterns that coincide with puberty, according to findings published in Science Advances. The research team used brain imaging in humans with the condition and laboratory mice with similar genetic modifications to track these changes. “Differences in functional connectivity observed on MRI are

Puberty rewires brain in genetic condition linked to autism
Local|Crime|News

California crime rates drop as state credits enforcement strategy

California crime rates fell in 2024, with both violent and property offenses showing notable declines, according to preliminary data released by state officials. An analysis by the Public Policy Institute of California found violent crime dropped 4.6% in 2024 compared to the previous year, while property crime fell 8.5%. The institute examined Real Time Crime Index data from 29 law enforcement agencies throughout the state. Robberies decreased by 5.2%, and aggravated assaults fell by 3.9%, according to the analysis. Homicides dropped 5.9% from 2023 levels. Vehicle thefts showed a substantial decline of 11.9%. Burglary rates fell 13.6%, and larceny dropped

California crime rates drop as state credits enforcement strategy
Local

Record high animals dying on Los Angeles roads

A record number of animals are dying on Los Angeles roads. In 2024, more than 32,000 requests were made to remove dead animals from city streets, the highest number ever recorded, according to city service data. That’s a 10% spike in just one year. These incidents are not confined to specific areas. They are prevalent throughout L.A., from Van Nuys to San Pedro — where increasing urban development and heavy traffic intersect with natural wildlife habitats. This ongoing conflict has led to a noticeable rise in fatalities among native species, including opossums, skunks, coyotes, raccoons, and even mountain lions. An

Record high animals dying on Los Angeles roads
Environment

How affordable are electric vehicles in the US?

Despite billions in federal investment and growing consumer interest, electric vehicles still face slow adoption rates in the U.S. While widely promoted as an environmentally friendly alternative to gas-powered cars, EVs have high upfront prices and a lack of access to charging infrastructure, especially in rural and underserved communities.   EVs are highly efficient compared to gasoline-powered cars. Electric drivetrains convert over 77% of energy from the grid into actual movement at the wheels, while gas-powered engines manage just 12% to 30%, according to the Environmental and Energy Study Institute. EVs also produce zero tailpipe emissions, helping to cut smog and

How affordable are electric vehicles in the US?
Local

Newsom aims to develop partnerships amid new tariffs

Gov. Gavin Newsom has instructed state officials to develop new international trade partnerships and request exemptions for California products from potential retaliatory tariffs as the Trump administration implements its tariff policies. “California leads the nation as the #1 state for agriculture and manufacturing — and it’s our workers, families, and farmers who stand to lose the most from this Trump tax hike and trade war,”  Newsom said. “To our international partners: As the fifth largest economy in the world, the Golden State will remain a steady, reliable partner for generations to come, no matter the turbulence coming out of Washington.

Newsom aims to develop partnerships amid new tariffs
Local|Health|News

Study finds microplastics in human brains, link to dementia risk

Microplastics have always been debated, but scientists have now found them in the human brain, according to new studies. They also found potential links between microplastics and dementia and other neurological disorders.  Researchers detected plastic particles in every brain sample they analyzed, with concentrations significantly higher than those in other major organs, like the liver and kidneys. This study revealed people diagnosed with dementia had up to 10 times more microplastics in their brain tissue compared to individuals without dementia. The research published in Nature Medicine analyzed samples from postmortem human donors in the United States and found the brain

Study finds microplastics in human brains, link to dementia risk
News|Local

San Bernardino operation makes progress to combat violence and theft

In a decisive move against crime, California’s San Bernardino operation — launched by Gov. Gavin Newsom in October 2024 — has yielded 858 arrests, 66 recovered stolen vehicles, and the confiscation of 28 illegal firearms, including 140 for felony offenses. “As we continue prioritizing the safety and security of our communities statewide, the efforts done regionally in the San Bernardino area between state and local law enforcement are helping keep bad actors off the streets and holding them accountable for their actions,” Newsom said. The program deploys extra California Highway Patrol (CHP) officers throughout San Bernardino County, focusing on curbing

San Bernardino operation makes progress to combat violence and theft
Local

Explore family-friendly attractions in L.A. this spring break

Spring break is the perfect time to explore Los Angeles with your family. From thrilling amusement parks to educational museums and serene beach outings, L.A. has something for everyone. Here’s a list of the top family-friendly activities you might enjoy this spring.  1. Universal Studios Hollywood Universal Studios Hollywood, located in the San Fernando Valley area of L.A. County, California, is an unmissable attraction for families. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., this theme park offers exciting rides, live shows, and behind the scenes of Hollywood films. Ticket prices range between $109 and $154 per person, varying by

Explore family-friendly attractions in L.A. this spring break
Health

5 years after COVID: Understanding its long-term health effects

It’s been five years since COVID-19 was classified as a global pandemic. While life goes on for most people, millions still face ongoing health problems from the virus. Initially, doctors assumed COVID-19 only caused breathing issues. Now, doctors have since learned it has long-lasting health issues in various parts of our body. COVID-19 makes breathing hard and reduces lung capacity. Studies show recovered patients still had abnormal lung scans three months after getting sick. Even people who had mild symptoms during their illness now report trouble breathing, raising concerns about how the virus affects lung function over time. The virus

5 years after COVID: Understanding its long-term health effects
Health

Researchers find shorter, effective prostate cancer treatment

Health researchers have found that a shortened course of radiation therapy is just as effective as the conventional method for prostate cancer treatment, according to a study co-led by the University of California, Los Angeles. The research, published in the Lancet Oncology provides compelling evidence that moderately hypofractionated radiotherapy (MHFRT) offers the same cancer control as traditional approaches. According to this research, MHFRT delivers higher doses of radiation per session over a shorter period. “We believe these data strongly support that isodose MHFRT should become the preferred standard of care MHFRT regimen for prostate cancer,” said Dr. Amar Kishan. He’s

Researchers find shorter, effective prostate cancer treatment
Local

Health risks of illegal dumping in Los Angeles: What you need to know

Illegal dumping in Los Angeles has significantly increased in recent years, posing escalating health risks to residents. In the first two months of 2025, the city recorded 22,046 complaints about illegal dumping, a 36% rise compared to the same period in 2024. Specific neighborhoods have experienced notable surges. Van Nuys registered 843 reports in the first two months of 2025, a 55.6% increase from the previous year. Hyde Park saw a 127% rise, with 555 reports during the same timeframe. These increases can pose a health threat to residents. When materials like paint, electronics, and furniture are burned or left

Health risks of illegal dumping in Los Angeles: What you need to know
Local|News

Survey reveals Gen Z experiences burnout earlier

A quarter of Americans experience burnout before reaching age 30, according to a new national survey that reveals generational differences in stress patterns. The study by Talker Research found that while the average American reaches peak burnout around age 42, younger generations report hitting their stress ceiling much earlier — at an average age of 25. “It’s fascinating — and a little concerning — to see how younger Americans are experiencing peak stress earlier than ever before,” said Ehab Youssef, a licensed clinical psychologist and mental health researcher at Mentalyc. “I see it in my practice all the time: twenty-somethings

Survey reveals Gen Z experiences burnout earlier
Local

Eaton Fire Lawsuits: Can Southern California Edison Be Held Accountable?

Multiple lawsuits have been filed against Southern California Edison (SCE) and its parent company, Edison International, following January’s catastrophic Eaton Fire. The blaze, which killed 17 people and destroyed 9,414 structures, has prompted legal action from Los Angeles County, neighboring cities, and affected residents who allege Edison’s negligence sparked the incident. The Eaton Fire ignited on Jan. 7 near Eaton Canyon in the San Gabriel Mountains quickly intensified amid powerful Santa Ana winds. The fire scorched over 14,021 acres across northeastern L.A. suburbs, including Altadena, Pasadena, and Sierra Madre. On March 5, L.A. County filed a lawsuit against Edison, alleging

Eaton Fire Lawsuits: Can Southern California Edison Be Held Accountable?

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