Millions of California residents could get a break if they violate their homeowners association rules due to a new law that caps fines at $100, down from hundreds to thousands of dollars. Amid an affordability crisis, lawmakers and groups that represent homeowners have characterized the cap, which took effect July 1, as protecting the pocketbooks of middle- and low-income residents. However, HOA boards worry the new restriction will limit their authority to enforce rules. (fb)

All eyes are on California this fall as voters decide whether to approve Proposition 50, which would temporarily set aside the state’s nonpartisan citizen redistricting commission and adopt new congressional lines for the next three election cycles. (fb)