What if instead of paying taxes at the gas pump, California charged you for every mile you drive? That’s not law yet, but our state just took a major step closer to it. That step is called AB 1421, and today, we’re going to unpack what it is, what it isn’t, and why this conversation matters right now. Buckle up because when it comes to increasing taxes, I have a LOT to say!

Check out more content related to California politics, here: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLI6CiPPZnCntOxJ2m6iAHX3sj1_Ll0RuF&si=SKPfDPkTvHwSapto

For sources cited in compiling today’s episode, check out my corresponding article here: https://www.thecaliforniaconversation.com/articles/is-california-introducing-a-mileage-tax

Timestamps:

00:00 – 03:37 What is AB 1421?

03:38 – 10:55 Gas vs. Mileage Tax Explained

10:56 – 30:47 Three Major Problems

30:48 – 34:12 Why This Matters Today

In just the last few weeks, higher courts have stepped in and delivered major blows to some of the most aggressive policies our state government has treated as untouchable. From gun rights, to parental rights, to immigration enforcement, we are watching federal judges remind California of something it has tried so hard to forget: the Constitution still applies here. I’m breaking it all down for you today and showing you how these rulings are proof that the tide CAN turn, even in the bluest state in the country.

**CORRECTION: In the show, it is stated that California is a "may issue state." That was true up until 2024, when the the 2022 Supreme Court Bruen decision went into effect. Based on that ruling, California transitioned from a "may-issue" to a "shall-issue" state for concealed carry licenses. Local law enforcement must issue permits to qualified applicants who meet the objective standards mentioned (background checks, training, and "good moral character"), but the standards removed the previous, more subjective "good cause" requirement. However, length of time and general ability to obtain a CCW still varies widely across the state depending on where you live and how "gun-friendly" your county/city is.

Check out more content related to California politics, here: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLI6CiPPZnCntOxJ2m6iAHX3sj1_Ll0RuF&si=gQ8UHDyrvccwY7Ww

For sources cited in compiling today’s episode, check out my corresponding article here: https://www.thecaliforniaconversation.com/articles/major-legal-wins-in-california

Previous episodes mentioned in today’s show:

AB 1955 – https://rss.com/podcasts/thecaliforniaconversation/1783723/

Timestamps:

00:00 – 01:07 Introducing Recent Court Wins

01:08 – 08:51 Second Amendment Rights

08:52 – 16:20 Parental Rights

16:21 – 18:39 Federal Immigration Enforcement

18:40 – 25:00 Politics Matter!

California is breaking from federal health policy – from reengaging with the WHO to passing AB 144, we are truly acting like our own country. What does this power shift mean for medical freedom, informed consent, and who gets to decide health guidance in our state?

Check out more content related to California politics, here: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLI6CiPPZnCntOxJ2m6iAHX3sj1_Ll0RuF&si=Edl0IPyRqyvvSOWl

For sources cited in compiling today’s episode, check out my corresponding article here: https://www.thecaliforniaconversation.com/articles/californias-break-from-federal-health-policy

Timestamps:

00:00 – 08:51 Controversy Over the WHO

08:52 – 12:51 Further California Isolationism

12:52 – 16:53 Policy Shift – AB 144

16:54 – 28:46 States’ Rights vs. the Constitution?

28:47 – 33:23 Call to Action!