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"content": "\u003cp>Renting in California \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12057863/how-bad-is-californias-housing-shortage-it-depends-on-whos-doing-the-counting\">is not cheap\u003c/a>. The average rent for a one-bedroom in the Golden State — $2,100 — is \u003ca href=\"https://www.zillow.com/rental-manager/market-trends/california/?bedrooms=1\">40% higher than the national average\u003c/a>. But renters will soon be getting a little more for their money: a working refrigerator and stove.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>On Jan. 1, California will begin requiring landlords to provide their tenants with a fridge and stove — and repair or replace them if they stop working.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>While this \u003ca href=\"https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB628\">new law\u003c/a> may surprise some tenants who have always lived in apartments that already came with these appliances, it’s more common \u003ca href=\"https://laist.com/news/housing-homelessness/california-los-angeles-aparments-refrigerator-fridge-housing-landlord-renter-law\">in Southern California cities\u003c/a> for landlords to rent out homes with no stove or refrigerator, placing this responsibility on the tenant.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>AB 628 — authored by state Assemblymember Tina McKinnor, D-Inglewood — adds these appliances to the \u003ca href=\"https://sls.berkeley.edu/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/DCA-Legal-Guide-LT-3-for-SLS-website.pdf\">state’s definition\u003c/a> of a livable home, helping secure access to these appliances for the state’s millions of tenants.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Having a working, safe fridge and stove will be a minimum requirement for keeping the unit in a habitable state,” said Ethan Silverstein, staff attorney for the housing rights nonprofit, The California Center for Movement Legal Services.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Whether you are a renter or landlord, keep reading to learn how AB 628 applies in different situations and what legal experts recommend to make sure your home is up-to-date with the state’s habitability standards.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>What does the law actually say?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>All new leases signed on or after Jan. 1 will need to include a working fridge and stove.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>When an existing lease is renewed or extended at any moment starting on Jan. 1, those homes will also need to have these appliances.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12024380\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12024380 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/20250128_RichmondInspections_GC-20.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/20250128_RichmondInspections_GC-20.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/20250128_RichmondInspections_GC-20-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/20250128_RichmondInspections_GC-20-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/20250128_RichmondInspections_GC-20-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/20250128_RichmondInspections_GC-20-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/20250128_RichmondInspections_GC-20-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A gas stove inside a home in Richmond on Jan. 28, 2025. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>“The way this law is written, it will eventually apply to all new and current renters in California,” Silverstein said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This law also applies to homes where tenants are renting\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12044014/renter-tenant-protections-without-lease-california-contract-renting-law\"> without a formal written agreement\u003c/a> (e.g., renting “informally” with a month-to-month lease).\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>What tenants should know\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>If you’re thinking about moving and hoping to land a new spot sometime in 2026, any potential landlord must be ready to provide a stove and refrigerator, along with any maintenance these devices need in the future — at no cost to you. And if you plan to stay in your current rental home, this law will impact you, depending on who provided the appliances.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you bought your own refrigerator when you moved in, you can talk with your landlord before it’s time to renew your lease and decide together if it makes more sense to keep it or replace it with one provided by your landlord.[aside postID=news_12060292 hero='https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/10/ClimateBill_lede.jpg']“The parties can agree for the tenant to bring their own refrigerator,” said Whitney Prout, executive vice president of legal affairs for the California Apartment Association, which advises landlords and developers. “But you can’t require the tenant to bring their own refrigerator. … It has to be the tenant’s voluntary choice and the landlord has to agree.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If both you and your landlord decide to keep the fridge you provided, the law requires that the lease acknowledge this arrangement by adding the following disclosure:\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>“Under state law, the landlord is required to provide a refrigerator in good working order in your unit. By checking this box, you acknowledge that you have asked to bring your own refrigerator and that you are responsible for keeping that refrigerator in working order.”\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But under no circumstances can the landlord ask a tenant to buy their home’s stove. “The landlord needs to provide the stove,” Prout said. “You can’t have an agreement for the tenant to provide their own stove.”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>What landlords need to know\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Landlords should start preparing now to comply with AB 628, Prout said. “Look at when your lease renewals are coming up, because that does give you some flexibility in terms of phasing in compliance with this law — especially if you have a lot of appliances you need to acquire,” she said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>What kind of stove or fridge are landlords required to provide? The actual text of the law is pretty broad and only specifies that these appliances need to be in “good working order.” A stove must be “capable of safely generating heat for cooking purposes,” while a refrigerator should be “capable of safely storing food.” According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, a refrigerator that can keep temperatures at 40°F or below \u003ca href=\"https://ask.usda.gov/s/article/Why-is-a-refrigerator-important-for-keeping-food-safe\">can protect most food products\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067656\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12067656 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/RefrigeratorGetty.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1330\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/RefrigeratorGetty.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/RefrigeratorGetty-160x106.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/RefrigeratorGetty-1536x1021.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">On Jan. 1, California will begin requiring landlords to provide their tenants with a fridge and stove — and repair or replace them if they stop working. \u003ccite>(Alicia Windzio/Picture Alliance via Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>As for what appliance brand or model, that’s the landlord’s decision. But Prout added that it could be a good idea to share with tenants some information on the appliances you’ll provide them with, especially if you’re planning to replace what’s in their home.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The tenant may have feelings about aesthetics,” she said. “They may have invested in a stainless steel refrigerator that they’re really happy with, that has certain functionalities.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And if you will replace existing appliances, make a plan to safely remove them. “Communicate with residents what the appropriate processes are for removal and disposal of tenant-provided appliances,” Prout said, adding that “Illegal dumping is a huge problem around rental property.”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>What if these appliances break down?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>If the tenant provided the fridge— and both the tenant and landlord agreed to this arrangement — then it’s actually the tenant’s responsibility to make repairs.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But if the landlord provided both the refrigerator and stove, then it’s up to the landlord to make sure they keep functioning. “You provide the appliances; if they break down, you fix them or replace them — as long as you’re doing that, you’re in compliance with the law,” Prout said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12051134\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12051134\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/08/018_SanFrancisco_Housing_07292021_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/08/018_SanFrancisco_Housing_07292021_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/08/018_SanFrancisco_Housing_07292021_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/08/018_SanFrancisco_Housing_07292021_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A “For Rent” sign hangs in the window of an apartment building in Nob Hill in San Francisco on July 29, 2021. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>The law explicitly states that property owners have 30 days to either replace or repair these appliances if there is a recall from the manufacturer.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Landlords: Keep in mind that while it’s legal to provide your tenants with second-hand appliances, it may be more difficult to keep up with recall announcements, as the manufacturer may not have a record that you bought their product.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But if these devices simply break down with time or use, “It’s like any other repair issue where the landlord needs to act in a reasonable amount of time to get it replaced,” Silverstein said.[aside postID=news_12066478 hero='https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/250325-APARTMENTSONWESTSIDE-10-BL-KQED-1020x680.jpg']Silverstein recommends that tenants notify their landlords about any repair needs through written communication, like a text message or email.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The worst thing you can do is make the request verbally through the phone,” he said, adding that keeping this “paper” trail could be helpful if your landlord fails to make necessary repairs. You can also ask your landlord for a clear date for when repairs will be made and what you can do in the interim to safely store or cook your food.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If a landlord is not complying with AB 628, tenants can contact their city’s rent board or building code enforcement agency. After a tenant files a complaint, code enforcement staff will contact the landlord to enforce the state’s habitability standards.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Below is the contact information for the code enforcement departments of several California cities. You can also quickly look up the contact information for your city’s agency with an online search.\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Los Angeles:\u003c/strong> If you live in a property that only contains one house, you can call 888-524-2845 or \u003ca href=\"https://www.ladbsservices2.lacity.org/OnlineServices/?service=rav\">file a complaint online\u003c/a>. If you live in a property that contains multiple homes — like a duplex or an apartment complex — you can call 866-557-7368 or \u003ca href=\"https://housingapp.lacity.org/ReportViolation/Pages/ReportViolation\">file a complaint online\u003c/a>. And if you live in unincorporated Los Angeles County, you can call 211 or \u003ca href=\"https://pw.lacounty.gov/general/faq/index.cfm?action=NewQuestion&AppSubject=Report%20a%20Building%20and%20Safety%20Concern%20for%20Privately%20Owned%20Properties&Category=Environment&ReqDivision=BSDAVCE&crossStreet=1\">file a complaint online\u003c/a>.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>San Diego:\u003c/strong> If you live in the city of San Diego, call 619-236-5500 or \u003ca href=\"https://aca-prod.accela.com/SANDIEGO/Cap/CapHome.aspx?module=CE&TabName=CE&TabList=Home%7C0%7CDSD%7C1%7CCE%7C2%7CShortTermRental%7C3%7CCurrentTabIndex%7C2\">file a complaint online\u003c/a>. And if you live in unincorporated San Diego County, you can call 858-694-2705.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Long Beach:\u003c/strong> Call 562-570-2633 or \u003ca href=\"https://www.longbeach.gov/lbcd/enforcement/referrals/\">file a complaint about a Long Beach rental online\u003c/a>.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>San Francisco:\u003c/strong> Call 311 or \u003ca href=\"https://dbiweb02.sfgov.org/dbi_complaints/default.aspx?page=AddressQuery\">file a complaint about a San Francisco rental online\u003c/a>.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Oakland:\u003c/strong> Call 510-238-3444 or \u003ca href=\"https://aca-prod.accela.com/OAKLAND/Cap/CapApplyDisclaimer.aspx?module=Enforcement&TabName=Enforcement\">file a complaint about an Oakland rental online\u003c/a>.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>San José:\u003c/strong> Call 408-535-7770 or \u003ca href=\"https://www.sanjoseca.gov/your-government/departments-offices/planning-building-code-enforcement/code-enforcement/request-service-check-status/code-service-request-form\">file a complaint about a San José rental online\u003c/a>.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Santa Ana:\u003c/strong> Call 714-667- 2780 or \u003ca href=\"https://www.santa-ana.org/submit-a-complaint-online/\">file a complaint about a Santa Ana rental online\u003c/a>.\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>[ad floatright]\u003c/p>\n",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>Renting in California \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12057863/how-bad-is-californias-housing-shortage-it-depends-on-whos-doing-the-counting\">is not cheap\u003c/a>. The average rent for a one-bedroom in the Golden State — $2,100 — is \u003ca href=\"https://www.zillow.com/rental-manager/market-trends/california/?bedrooms=1\">40% higher than the national average\u003c/a>. But renters will soon be getting a little more for their money: a working refrigerator and stove.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>On Jan. 1, California will begin requiring landlords to provide their tenants with a fridge and stove — and repair or replace them if they stop working.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>While this \u003ca href=\"https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB628\">new law\u003c/a> may surprise some tenants who have always lived in apartments that already came with these appliances, it’s more common \u003ca href=\"https://laist.com/news/housing-homelessness/california-los-angeles-aparments-refrigerator-fridge-housing-landlord-renter-law\">in Southern California cities\u003c/a> for landlords to rent out homes with no stove or refrigerator, placing this responsibility on the tenant.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>AB 628 — authored by state Assemblymember Tina McKinnor, D-Inglewood — adds these appliances to the \u003ca href=\"https://sls.berkeley.edu/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/DCA-Legal-Guide-LT-3-for-SLS-website.pdf\">state’s definition\u003c/a> of a livable home, helping secure access to these appliances for the state’s millions of tenants.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Having a working, safe fridge and stove will be a minimum requirement for keeping the unit in a habitable state,” said Ethan Silverstein, staff attorney for the housing rights nonprofit, The California Center for Movement Legal Services.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Whether you are a renter or landlord, keep reading to learn how AB 628 applies in different situations and what legal experts recommend to make sure your home is up-to-date with the state’s habitability standards.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>What does the law actually say?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>All new leases signed on or after Jan. 1 will need to include a working fridge and stove.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>When an existing lease is renewed or extended at any moment starting on Jan. 1, those homes will also need to have these appliances.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12024380\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12024380 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/20250128_RichmondInspections_GC-20.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/20250128_RichmondInspections_GC-20.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/20250128_RichmondInspections_GC-20-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/20250128_RichmondInspections_GC-20-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/20250128_RichmondInspections_GC-20-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/20250128_RichmondInspections_GC-20-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/20250128_RichmondInspections_GC-20-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A gas stove inside a home in Richmond on Jan. 28, 2025. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>“The way this law is written, it will eventually apply to all new and current renters in California,” Silverstein said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This law also applies to homes where tenants are renting\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12044014/renter-tenant-protections-without-lease-california-contract-renting-law\"> without a formal written agreement\u003c/a> (e.g., renting “informally” with a month-to-month lease).\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>What tenants should know\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>If you’re thinking about moving and hoping to land a new spot sometime in 2026, any potential landlord must be ready to provide a stove and refrigerator, along with any maintenance these devices need in the future — at no cost to you. And if you plan to stay in your current rental home, this law will impact you, depending on who provided the appliances.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you bought your own refrigerator when you moved in, you can talk with your landlord before it’s time to renew your lease and decide together if it makes more sense to keep it or replace it with one provided by your landlord.\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>“The parties can agree for the tenant to bring their own refrigerator,” said Whitney Prout, executive vice president of legal affairs for the California Apartment Association, which advises landlords and developers. “But you can’t require the tenant to bring their own refrigerator. … It has to be the tenant’s voluntary choice and the landlord has to agree.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If both you and your landlord decide to keep the fridge you provided, the law requires that the lease acknowledge this arrangement by adding the following disclosure:\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>“Under state law, the landlord is required to provide a refrigerator in good working order in your unit. By checking this box, you acknowledge that you have asked to bring your own refrigerator and that you are responsible for keeping that refrigerator in working order.”\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But under no circumstances can the landlord ask a tenant to buy their home’s stove. “The landlord needs to provide the stove,” Prout said. “You can’t have an agreement for the tenant to provide their own stove.”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>What landlords need to know\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Landlords should start preparing now to comply with AB 628, Prout said. “Look at when your lease renewals are coming up, because that does give you some flexibility in terms of phasing in compliance with this law — especially if you have a lot of appliances you need to acquire,” she said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>What kind of stove or fridge are landlords required to provide? The actual text of the law is pretty broad and only specifies that these appliances need to be in “good working order.” A stove must be “capable of safely generating heat for cooking purposes,” while a refrigerator should be “capable of safely storing food.” According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, a refrigerator that can keep temperatures at 40°F or below \u003ca href=\"https://ask.usda.gov/s/article/Why-is-a-refrigerator-important-for-keeping-food-safe\">can protect most food products\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067656\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12067656 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/RefrigeratorGetty.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1330\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/RefrigeratorGetty.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/RefrigeratorGetty-160x106.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/RefrigeratorGetty-1536x1021.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">On Jan. 1, California will begin requiring landlords to provide their tenants with a fridge and stove — and repair or replace them if they stop working. \u003ccite>(Alicia Windzio/Picture Alliance via Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>As for what appliance brand or model, that’s the landlord’s decision. But Prout added that it could be a good idea to share with tenants some information on the appliances you’ll provide them with, especially if you’re planning to replace what’s in their home.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The tenant may have feelings about aesthetics,” she said. “They may have invested in a stainless steel refrigerator that they’re really happy with, that has certain functionalities.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And if you will replace existing appliances, make a plan to safely remove them. “Communicate with residents what the appropriate processes are for removal and disposal of tenant-provided appliances,” Prout said, adding that “Illegal dumping is a huge problem around rental property.”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>What if these appliances break down?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>If the tenant provided the fridge— and both the tenant and landlord agreed to this arrangement — then it’s actually the tenant’s responsibility to make repairs.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But if the landlord provided both the refrigerator and stove, then it’s up to the landlord to make sure they keep functioning. “You provide the appliances; if they break down, you fix them or replace them — as long as you’re doing that, you’re in compliance with the law,” Prout said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12051134\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12051134\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/08/018_SanFrancisco_Housing_07292021_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/08/018_SanFrancisco_Housing_07292021_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/08/018_SanFrancisco_Housing_07292021_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/08/018_SanFrancisco_Housing_07292021_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A “For Rent” sign hangs in the window of an apartment building in Nob Hill in San Francisco on July 29, 2021. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>The law explicitly states that property owners have 30 days to either replace or repair these appliances if there is a recall from the manufacturer.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Landlords: Keep in mind that while it’s legal to provide your tenants with second-hand appliances, it may be more difficult to keep up with recall announcements, as the manufacturer may not have a record that you bought their product.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But if these devices simply break down with time or use, “It’s like any other repair issue where the landlord needs to act in a reasonable amount of time to get it replaced,” Silverstein said.\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>Silverstein recommends that tenants notify their landlords about any repair needs through written communication, like a text message or email.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The worst thing you can do is make the request verbally through the phone,” he said, adding that keeping this “paper” trail could be helpful if your landlord fails to make necessary repairs. You can also ask your landlord for a clear date for when repairs will be made and what you can do in the interim to safely store or cook your food.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If a landlord is not complying with AB 628, tenants can contact their city’s rent board or building code enforcement agency. After a tenant files a complaint, code enforcement staff will contact the landlord to enforce the state’s habitability standards.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Below is the contact information for the code enforcement departments of several California cities. You can also quickly look up the contact information for your city’s agency with an online search.\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Los Angeles:\u003c/strong> If you live in a property that only contains one house, you can call 888-524-2845 or \u003ca href=\"https://www.ladbsservices2.lacity.org/OnlineServices/?service=rav\">file a complaint online\u003c/a>. If you live in a property that contains multiple homes — like a duplex or an apartment complex — you can call 866-557-7368 or \u003ca href=\"https://housingapp.lacity.org/ReportViolation/Pages/ReportViolation\">file a complaint online\u003c/a>. And if you live in unincorporated Los Angeles County, you can call 211 or \u003ca href=\"https://pw.lacounty.gov/general/faq/index.cfm?action=NewQuestion&AppSubject=Report%20a%20Building%20and%20Safety%20Concern%20for%20Privately%20Owned%20Properties&Category=Environment&ReqDivision=BSDAVCE&crossStreet=1\">file a complaint online\u003c/a>.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>San Diego:\u003c/strong> If you live in the city of San Diego, call 619-236-5500 or \u003ca href=\"https://aca-prod.accela.com/SANDIEGO/Cap/CapHome.aspx?module=CE&TabName=CE&TabList=Home%7C0%7CDSD%7C1%7CCE%7C2%7CShortTermRental%7C3%7CCurrentTabIndex%7C2\">file a complaint online\u003c/a>. And if you live in unincorporated San Diego County, you can call 858-694-2705.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Long Beach:\u003c/strong> Call 562-570-2633 or \u003ca href=\"https://www.longbeach.gov/lbcd/enforcement/referrals/\">file a complaint about a Long Beach rental online\u003c/a>.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>San Francisco:\u003c/strong> Call 311 or \u003ca href=\"https://dbiweb02.sfgov.org/dbi_complaints/default.aspx?page=AddressQuery\">file a complaint about a San Francisco rental online\u003c/a>.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Oakland:\u003c/strong> Call 510-238-3444 or \u003ca href=\"https://aca-prod.accela.com/OAKLAND/Cap/CapApplyDisclaimer.aspx?module=Enforcement&TabName=Enforcement\">file a complaint about an Oakland rental online\u003c/a>.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>San José:\u003c/strong> Call 408-535-7770 or \u003ca href=\"https://www.sanjoseca.gov/your-government/departments-offices/planning-building-code-enforcement/code-enforcement/request-service-check-status/code-service-request-form\">file a complaint about a San José rental online\u003c/a>.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Santa Ana:\u003c/strong> Call 714-667- 2780 or \u003ca href=\"https://www.santa-ana.org/submit-a-complaint-online/\">file a complaint about a Santa Ana rental online\u003c/a>.\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"slug": "berkeleys-barbara-lubin-longtime-champion-of-palestinian-human-rights-dies-at-84",
"title": "Berkeley’s Barbara Lubin, Longtime Champion of Palestinian Human Rights, Dies at 84",
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"headTitle": "Berkeley’s Barbara Lubin, Longtime Champion of Palestinian Human Rights, Dies at 84 | KQED",
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"content": "\u003cp>Bay Area activist Barbara Lubin, who worked for more than half a century in support of disability rights, international peace and Palestinian human rights, died on Saturday in \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/tag/berkeley\">Berkeley\u003c/a>, her family said. She was 84.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Throughout her life, Lubin’s tireless advocacy brought her from antiwar demonstrations to the Berkeley school board to the streets of the West Bank and Gaza.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Barbara will be remembered as a person who never saw an injustice she didn’t try to right, never saw somebody’s pain that she didn’t try to ease and never turned away when something was in her way that could have made somebody’s life better,” her husband, Howard Levine, told KQED.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Lubin was perhaps best known for co-founding the Middle East Children’s Alliance in 1988. As part of her work with MECA, she helped deliver millions of dollars in aid and support hundreds of community projects for children in the occupied Palestinian territories, Iraq and Lebanon.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“She started an organization at a time when it was very hard in the United States to do work for Palestine, to be in solidarity,” Zeiad Abbas Shamrouch, MECA’s executive director, told KQED. “For us as Palestinians, in that period, to have an ally in the U.S. supporting local initiatives was huge.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067595\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12067595\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/Barbara-in-Gaza-w-kids-art-scaled-e1766002781624.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1328\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Barbara Lubin visits children making art in Gaza in 2012. \u003ccite>(Courtesy of the Middle East Children's Alliance)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Lubin, who spoke often about her Jewish identity, strove to bridge national, ethnic and religious boundaries in her work, MECA said in a statement announcing her death. She is survived by her husband, Levine, her four children and seven grandchildren.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Born in Philadelphia in 1941 to a family that supported Israel, she dropped out of high school after the 10th grade to support her family following the death of her father, her son said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In the late 1960s, Lubin became an anti-Vietnam War activist, dressing as a man to infiltrate military enlistment centers and pass out leaflets. She also worked as a draft counselor, advising young men about their options, and was arrested blocking a naval ship at the Port of Delaware.[aside postID=news_12062192 hero='https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/uc-berkeley-malak-afaneh-handout_qed-1020x680.jpg']In 1969, her son Charlie was born with Down syndrome. His treatment by his medical providers and his exclusion from education in Berkeley, where the family had moved in 1973, led Lubin to sue the district over their lack of opportunities for students with disabilities. She eventually mounted a successful run for the Berkeley school board.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The moment Charlie came home from the hospital, my mother’s politics really were organized — not necessarily as consciously political, but as attempts to find ways to build a life for Charlie,” Barbara’s son Alex Lubin said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In the early 1980s, Lubin became active in the fight to bring rent control to Berkeley after Ozzie’s Soda Fountain, a restaurant in the \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11996229/berkeley-first-city-to-sanctify-single-family-zoning-considers-historic-reversal-allowing-small-apartments\">Elmwood neighborhood\u003c/a> that her son Charlie loved, was sold to developers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The next day, my mother had a table out in front of Ozzie’s,” Alex said. “She started the Elmwood Preservation Society. And she fought the developers, and she worked with other people to draft legislation for the first commercial rent control law in the United States.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The Elmwood rent measure was passed by Berkeley voters in 1982, followed by similar ordinances covering Telegraph Avenue and West Berkeley, before all three were blocked by the California Legislature in 1988, according to research published in \u003ca href=\"https://lawcat.berkeley.edu/record/1113195?v=pdf\">a UC Berkeley law quarterly. \u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067597\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12067597\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/ambulance-gaza-scaled-e1766002637406.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1339\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Barbara Lubin, co-founder of the Middle East Children’s Alliance, stands in Gaza in 2012 with an ambulance that the organization donated to the Red Crescent Society of the Gaza Strip. \u003ccite>(Courtesy of the Middle East Children's Alliance)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Next, Lubin became active in the movement opposing U.S. military intervention in Central America and joined a group of female peace advocates who barricaded the entrance to Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in 1984 as part of a nonviolent anti-nuclear proliferation protest.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It was in those years that she was approached by a group of Palestinian and Arab students from San Francisco State University, who asked her why, for all of her advocacy in the Bay Area around disability rights and leftist politics, she never took a stand on Palestinian human rights.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“My mother’s response to them was, ‘Why would I say anything? I’m Jewish.’ She thought it wasn’t her issue,” Alex said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The students convinced her to join a delegation that included Jeanne Butterfield, a leading immigrant rights attorney, as well as local politicians and interfaith leaders, to visit the occupied Palestinian territories.[aside postID=arts_13893843 hero='https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/2/2021/03/guillaume-de-germain-Z_br8TOcCpE-unsplash-1020x681.jpg']The tour, in early 1988, took place shortly after Palestinian civilians launched an uprising against Israel’s military occupation and documented human rights violations, including home demolitions, forced deportations and the suppression of political and educational activities. The uprising, which included both nonviolent protests and deadly attacks, was met with violent and brutal crackdowns by Israeli forces.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“She saw Palestine for the first time, and she saw many of the forests that her family contributed money to develop through the Jewish National Fund when she was a little kid,” Alex said. “And she was appalled. She was sickened by the injustice she saw. She had always believed that what was good enough for Charlie, what was good enough for her kids, was good enough for all kids.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Within a year, Lubin formed the Middle East Children’s Alliance with Levine, a journalist who became Lubin’s husband and partner. The organization’s early board included luminaries such as Edward Said, a Palestinian-born postcolonial academic and literary critic; Sen. James Abourezk, the first Arab to serve in the U.S. Senate; and poets Allen Ginsberg and Maya Angelou.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The organization today is one of the leading groups raising funds and awareness for the plight of Palestinian children, as well as children across the Middle East. Under Lubin’s leadership, the alliance built playgrounds and safe water infrastructure in refugee camps in Gaza, donated ambulances, delivered medicine and food, and led dozens of American delegations to the Middle East.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067596\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12067596\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/Barbara-in-Gaza-2012-kidsMECA-staff-scaled-e1766002769898.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1328\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Barbara Lubin and other Middle East Children’s Alliance staff pose with children in Gaza in 2012. \u003ccite>(Courtesy of the Middle East Children's Alliance)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>In the 1990s, Lubin smuggled food and medicine into Iraq during the U.S.-led international sanctions. In 1999, MECA sponsored the first and only U.S. tour of Ibdaa, an internationally acclaimed youth dance troupe from the West Bank, which introduced thousands of Americans to the stories of Palestinian refugees, farmers and prisoners through traditional dance and choreography. The tour included a performance at the \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/arts/10161316/alcatrazs-sunrise-ceremony-40-years-of-celebrating-self-determination\">Alcatraz Indigenous Peoples’ Sunrise Ceremony\u003c/a> on Thanksgiving.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Abbas, who has helmed MECA since Lubin’s retirement in 2018, recalled meeting her for the first time in the early 1990s, when he was a young man living in Bethlehem’s Dheisheh refugee camp, surrounded by a fence that was “eight meters high.” He was put off at first, he said, by her intense questioning about his and other Palestinians’ circumstances, but he quickly grew to respect and value her fearlessness and pragmatism as she returned time and time again.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“She was in no way someone who would take a few steps back,” Abbas said. “All the time, she moved forward. Her legacy will live with us with all the work we are doing.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>On May 29, 2018, the Berkeley City Council proclaimed June 4 “Barbara Lubin Day” in Berkeley to honor her decades of extraordinary activism.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>According to Nora Barrows-Friedman, a friend and journalist who worked with Lubin on her unreleased memoir, much of the work Lubin spearheaded in Gaza — as well as MECA’s ongoing efforts following her retirement — has been destroyed or severely damaged by Israeli military campaigns over the past two years.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I think what carries me on is my anger at injustice,” Lubin said, in a statement shared by MECA. “I know a lot of people say it’s not good to be angry, but in reality, it’s the anger at the unfairness in this world that just spurs me on. When I think something is really wrong, I’m not going to be quiet. I get up, and I fight, and I try and change it.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad floatright]\u003c/p>\n",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>Bay Area activist Barbara Lubin, who worked for more than half a century in support of disability rights, international peace and Palestinian human rights, died on Saturday in \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/tag/berkeley\">Berkeley\u003c/a>, her family said. She was 84.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Throughout her life, Lubin’s tireless advocacy brought her from antiwar demonstrations to the Berkeley school board to the streets of the West Bank and Gaza.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Barbara will be remembered as a person who never saw an injustice she didn’t try to right, never saw somebody’s pain that she didn’t try to ease and never turned away when something was in her way that could have made somebody’s life better,” her husband, Howard Levine, told KQED.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Lubin was perhaps best known for co-founding the Middle East Children’s Alliance in 1988. As part of her work with MECA, she helped deliver millions of dollars in aid and support hundreds of community projects for children in the occupied Palestinian territories, Iraq and Lebanon.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“She started an organization at a time when it was very hard in the United States to do work for Palestine, to be in solidarity,” Zeiad Abbas Shamrouch, MECA’s executive director, told KQED. “For us as Palestinians, in that period, to have an ally in the U.S. supporting local initiatives was huge.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067595\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12067595\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/Barbara-in-Gaza-w-kids-art-scaled-e1766002781624.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1328\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Barbara Lubin visits children making art in Gaza in 2012. \u003ccite>(Courtesy of the Middle East Children's Alliance)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Lubin, who spoke often about her Jewish identity, strove to bridge national, ethnic and religious boundaries in her work, MECA said in a statement announcing her death. She is survived by her husband, Levine, her four children and seven grandchildren.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Born in Philadelphia in 1941 to a family that supported Israel, she dropped out of high school after the 10th grade to support her family following the death of her father, her son said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In the late 1960s, Lubin became an anti-Vietnam War activist, dressing as a man to infiltrate military enlistment centers and pass out leaflets. She also worked as a draft counselor, advising young men about their options, and was arrested blocking a naval ship at the Port of Delaware.\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>In 1969, her son Charlie was born with Down syndrome. His treatment by his medical providers and his exclusion from education in Berkeley, where the family had moved in 1973, led Lubin to sue the district over their lack of opportunities for students with disabilities. She eventually mounted a successful run for the Berkeley school board.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The moment Charlie came home from the hospital, my mother’s politics really were organized — not necessarily as consciously political, but as attempts to find ways to build a life for Charlie,” Barbara’s son Alex Lubin said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In the early 1980s, Lubin became active in the fight to bring rent control to Berkeley after Ozzie’s Soda Fountain, a restaurant in the \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11996229/berkeley-first-city-to-sanctify-single-family-zoning-considers-historic-reversal-allowing-small-apartments\">Elmwood neighborhood\u003c/a> that her son Charlie loved, was sold to developers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The next day, my mother had a table out in front of Ozzie’s,” Alex said. “She started the Elmwood Preservation Society. And she fought the developers, and she worked with other people to draft legislation for the first commercial rent control law in the United States.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The Elmwood rent measure was passed by Berkeley voters in 1982, followed by similar ordinances covering Telegraph Avenue and West Berkeley, before all three were blocked by the California Legislature in 1988, according to research published in \u003ca href=\"https://lawcat.berkeley.edu/record/1113195?v=pdf\">a UC Berkeley law quarterly. \u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067597\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12067597\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/ambulance-gaza-scaled-e1766002637406.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1339\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Barbara Lubin, co-founder of the Middle East Children’s Alliance, stands in Gaza in 2012 with an ambulance that the organization donated to the Red Crescent Society of the Gaza Strip. \u003ccite>(Courtesy of the Middle East Children's Alliance)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Next, Lubin became active in the movement opposing U.S. military intervention in Central America and joined a group of female peace advocates who barricaded the entrance to Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in 1984 as part of a nonviolent anti-nuclear proliferation protest.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It was in those years that she was approached by a group of Palestinian and Arab students from San Francisco State University, who asked her why, for all of her advocacy in the Bay Area around disability rights and leftist politics, she never took a stand on Palestinian human rights.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“My mother’s response to them was, ‘Why would I say anything? I’m Jewish.’ She thought it wasn’t her issue,” Alex said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The students convinced her to join a delegation that included Jeanne Butterfield, a leading immigrant rights attorney, as well as local politicians and interfaith leaders, to visit the occupied Palestinian territories.\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>The tour, in early 1988, took place shortly after Palestinian civilians launched an uprising against Israel’s military occupation and documented human rights violations, including home demolitions, forced deportations and the suppression of political and educational activities. The uprising, which included both nonviolent protests and deadly attacks, was met with violent and brutal crackdowns by Israeli forces.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“She saw Palestine for the first time, and she saw many of the forests that her family contributed money to develop through the Jewish National Fund when she was a little kid,” Alex said. “And she was appalled. She was sickened by the injustice she saw. She had always believed that what was good enough for Charlie, what was good enough for her kids, was good enough for all kids.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Within a year, Lubin formed the Middle East Children’s Alliance with Levine, a journalist who became Lubin’s husband and partner. The organization’s early board included luminaries such as Edward Said, a Palestinian-born postcolonial academic and literary critic; Sen. James Abourezk, the first Arab to serve in the U.S. Senate; and poets Allen Ginsberg and Maya Angelou.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The organization today is one of the leading groups raising funds and awareness for the plight of Palestinian children, as well as children across the Middle East. Under Lubin’s leadership, the alliance built playgrounds and safe water infrastructure in refugee camps in Gaza, donated ambulances, delivered medicine and food, and led dozens of American delegations to the Middle East.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067596\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12067596\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/Barbara-in-Gaza-2012-kidsMECA-staff-scaled-e1766002769898.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1328\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Barbara Lubin and other Middle East Children’s Alliance staff pose with children in Gaza in 2012. \u003ccite>(Courtesy of the Middle East Children's Alliance)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>In the 1990s, Lubin smuggled food and medicine into Iraq during the U.S.-led international sanctions. In 1999, MECA sponsored the first and only U.S. tour of Ibdaa, an internationally acclaimed youth dance troupe from the West Bank, which introduced thousands of Americans to the stories of Palestinian refugees, farmers and prisoners through traditional dance and choreography. The tour included a performance at the \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/arts/10161316/alcatrazs-sunrise-ceremony-40-years-of-celebrating-self-determination\">Alcatraz Indigenous Peoples’ Sunrise Ceremony\u003c/a> on Thanksgiving.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Abbas, who has helmed MECA since Lubin’s retirement in 2018, recalled meeting her for the first time in the early 1990s, when he was a young man living in Bethlehem’s Dheisheh refugee camp, surrounded by a fence that was “eight meters high.” He was put off at first, he said, by her intense questioning about his and other Palestinians’ circumstances, but he quickly grew to respect and value her fearlessness and pragmatism as she returned time and time again.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“She was in no way someone who would take a few steps back,” Abbas said. “All the time, she moved forward. Her legacy will live with us with all the work we are doing.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>On May 29, 2018, the Berkeley City Council proclaimed June 4 “Barbara Lubin Day” in Berkeley to honor her decades of extraordinary activism.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>According to Nora Barrows-Friedman, a friend and journalist who worked with Lubin on her unreleased memoir, much of the work Lubin spearheaded in Gaza — as well as MECA’s ongoing efforts following her retirement — has been destroyed or severely damaged by Israeli military campaigns over the past two years.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I think what carries me on is my anger at injustice,” Lubin said, in a statement shared by MECA. “I know a lot of people say it’s not good to be angry, but in reality, it’s the anger at the unfairness in this world that just spurs me on. When I think something is really wrong, I’m not going to be quiet. I get up, and I fight, and I try and change it.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cp>The Dublin City Council unanimously voted Tuesday night to oppose repurposing \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/tag/federal-correctional-institution-in-dublin\">a shuttered federal women’s prison\u003c/a> as an immigration detention facility or for any other type of incarceration.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>FCI Dublin \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11984115/women-forced-to-relocate-from-fci-dublin-prison-report-traumatizing-journey-seek-compassionate-release\">closed in scandal\u003c/a> last year amid allegations from scores of incarcerated women that they had faced years of sexual assault and mistreatment there. Following \u003ca href=\"https://www.ktvu.com/news/prison-union-concerned-fci-dublin-could-be-turned-ice-detention-center\">news reports\u003c/a> that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials had toured the facility in February, community members rallied against a potential pivot to ICE detention.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>More than 100 Dublin residents and others attended Tuesday evening’s council meeting, carrying signs that read “ICE out of Dublin,” and “We welcome immigrants here.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Vice Mayor Jean Josey said the message was heard loud and clear. Forty percent of Dublin residents are foreign-born, and she said she’s concerned they could be subject to racial profiling by immigration agents, as she’s observed in the Trump administration’s aggressive approach to enforcement in other cities.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We’re seeing fear around the country. We’re seeing impacts on schools and small businesses,” she said. “When there’s a detention facility nearby, it is well documented that there’s increased enforcement that’s not necessarily targeting folks with criminal backgrounds, but folks who may just look as if they might be immigrants.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11997597\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11997597\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/07/240408-FCIDublin-012-BL_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/07/240408-FCIDublin-012-BL_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/07/240408-FCIDublin-012-BL_qed-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/07/240408-FCIDublin-012-BL_qed-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/07/240408-FCIDublin-012-BL_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/07/240408-FCIDublin-012-BL_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/07/240408-FCIDublin-012-BL_qed-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A sign for the Federal Correctional Institution, Dublin, a former prison for women, in Dublin on April 8, 2024. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>In addition, Josey said, the prison has problems such as mold, asbestos and structural deficiencies that make it unsafe for inmates and staff. And residential neighborhoods have grown up around the facility.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>“\u003c/strong>There are homes right up against the property,” she said. “We don’t feel that it is an appropriate facility at this point to house anyone.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>All five council members approved the \u003ca href=\"https://legistarweb-production.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/attachment/pdf/3795225/FCI_Dublin_Reso.final.CT.pdf\">resolution\u003c/a>, which states their opposition to reopening the facility “for any detention or correctional purpose, including but not limited to its use as an Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention facility.” They call on the federal government “to engage in open and transparent communication with the City regarding any decisions affecting the site.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>City officials don’t control what the federal government does with its property, so the resolution is primarily symbolic. But both advocates and Dublin leaders say it’s still important to go on the record with a message of opposition.[aside postID=news_12067398 hero='https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251216-ICEPROTEST-22-BL-KQED.jpg']Roughly three dozen people spoke Tuesday night in favor of the resolution, with just one speaker opposed. One of those who spoke was Liz Schmitt, 85, a member of the local chapter of Indivisible, a grassroots progressive network working to combat President Donald Trump’s agenda.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I recognize it’s federal property and the city has absolutely no legal authority, but public outcry can go a long way,” she said. “The council listened to the residents and did what the residents asked, and I’m very proud of that.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The vote followed a meeting last month where scores of community members urged the council to take a more public stance against turning the prison into an ICE detention facility.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>According to Josey, city staffers have written to the Federal Bureau of Prisons, which owns the property, and to the Department of Homeland Security, urging them not to reopen the FCI Dublin site. She said the council is also in communication with Dublin’s state and federal representatives.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“While it is true that we do not have any direct influence or any direct control, we believe that we can make our feelings known,” Josey said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Democratic Reps. Eric Swalwell and Mark DeSaulnier, who represent Dublin in Congress, have both spoken out against turning the prison into an ICE facility.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12054567\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12054567\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/KernCountyICEDetentionGetty.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/KernCountyICEDetentionGetty.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/KernCountyICEDetentionGetty-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/KernCountyICEDetentionGetty-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">The CoreCivic, Inc. California City Immigration Processing Center stands in the Kern County desert awaiting reopening as a federal immigrant detention facility under contract with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in California City, California, on July 10, 2025. \u003ccite>(Patrick T. Fallon/AFP via Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Even before the Trump administration began vastly ramping up immigration enforcement, ICE was \u003ca href=\"https://calmatters.org/justice/2024/12/ice-detention-center-plan-northern-california/\">seeking additional detention \u003c/a>space in California and elsewhere in the Western U.S. Last year, the agency issued a \u003ca href=\"https://sam.gov/opp/b062f46b8208474f807af0a75e0d320f/view\">request for information about potential facilities \u003c/a>within a two-hour drive of its San Francisco field office. Today, the closest ICE lockup is nearly 300 miles away.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12054544/californias-newest-immigration-facility-is-also-its-biggest-is-it-operating-legally\">A new ICE facility opened\u003c/a> in late August in the Kern County town of California City. That facility, which is already facing \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12062774/conditions-at-massive-new-california-immigration-facility-are-alarming-report-finds\">allegations of substandard conditions\u003c/a>, is privately run, as are the other six ICE detention centers in California.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Community activists fear a planned transfer of FCI Dublin out of the ownership of the Federal Bureau of Prisons could be the first step in handing the property over to ICE or a private prison company, which could run it as an immigration detention center.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In a Dec. 4 letter to Dublin officials, the BOP said it is planning to turn the Dublin facility over to the U.S. General Services Administration, which handles federal real estate, because the property is too expensive to keep up.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The BOP has determined that the Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) located in Dublin, California (FCI Dublin), where most of the buildings and infrastructure were developed in the 1970s, is no longer needed to house inmates, requires substantial capital investment to meet standards, and is costly to operate and maintain,” the letter stated.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>After this article was published, the Department of Homeland Security said Friday that it has “nothing to announce about new detention facilities” at this time. But a spokesperson, who did not provide their name, went on to say that, with unprecedented cash provided by the tax and spending bill passed by Congress in July, “ICE now has historic funding to secure enough detention capacity to maintain an average daily population of 100,000 illegal aliens.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>ICE is currently holding a record 66,000 people in detention. At the start of Trump’s current term, the agency was detaining fewer than 40,000 people.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>The Dublin City Council unanimously voted Tuesday night to oppose repurposing \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/tag/federal-correctional-institution-in-dublin\">a shuttered federal women’s prison\u003c/a> as an immigration detention facility or for any other type of incarceration.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>FCI Dublin \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11984115/women-forced-to-relocate-from-fci-dublin-prison-report-traumatizing-journey-seek-compassionate-release\">closed in scandal\u003c/a> last year amid allegations from scores of incarcerated women that they had faced years of sexual assault and mistreatment there. Following \u003ca href=\"https://www.ktvu.com/news/prison-union-concerned-fci-dublin-could-be-turned-ice-detention-center\">news reports\u003c/a> that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials had toured the facility in February, community members rallied against a potential pivot to ICE detention.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>More than 100 Dublin residents and others attended Tuesday evening’s council meeting, carrying signs that read “ICE out of Dublin,” and “We welcome immigrants here.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Vice Mayor Jean Josey said the message was heard loud and clear. Forty percent of Dublin residents are foreign-born, and she said she’s concerned they could be subject to racial profiling by immigration agents, as she’s observed in the Trump administration’s aggressive approach to enforcement in other cities.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We’re seeing fear around the country. We’re seeing impacts on schools and small businesses,” she said. “When there’s a detention facility nearby, it is well documented that there’s increased enforcement that’s not necessarily targeting folks with criminal backgrounds, but folks who may just look as if they might be immigrants.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11997597\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11997597\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/07/240408-FCIDublin-012-BL_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/07/240408-FCIDublin-012-BL_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/07/240408-FCIDublin-012-BL_qed-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/07/240408-FCIDublin-012-BL_qed-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/07/240408-FCIDublin-012-BL_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/07/240408-FCIDublin-012-BL_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/07/240408-FCIDublin-012-BL_qed-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A sign for the Federal Correctional Institution, Dublin, a former prison for women, in Dublin on April 8, 2024. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>In addition, Josey said, the prison has problems such as mold, asbestos and structural deficiencies that make it unsafe for inmates and staff. And residential neighborhoods have grown up around the facility.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>“\u003c/strong>There are homes right up against the property,” she said. “We don’t feel that it is an appropriate facility at this point to house anyone.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>All five council members approved the \u003ca href=\"https://legistarweb-production.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/attachment/pdf/3795225/FCI_Dublin_Reso.final.CT.pdf\">resolution\u003c/a>, which states their opposition to reopening the facility “for any detention or correctional purpose, including but not limited to its use as an Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention facility.” They call on the federal government “to engage in open and transparent communication with the City regarding any decisions affecting the site.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>City officials don’t control what the federal government does with its property, so the resolution is primarily symbolic. But both advocates and Dublin leaders say it’s still important to go on the record with a message of opposition.\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>Roughly three dozen people spoke Tuesday night in favor of the resolution, with just one speaker opposed. One of those who spoke was Liz Schmitt, 85, a member of the local chapter of Indivisible, a grassroots progressive network working to combat President Donald Trump’s agenda.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I recognize it’s federal property and the city has absolutely no legal authority, but public outcry can go a long way,” she said. “The council listened to the residents and did what the residents asked, and I’m very proud of that.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The vote followed a meeting last month where scores of community members urged the council to take a more public stance against turning the prison into an ICE detention facility.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>According to Josey, city staffers have written to the Federal Bureau of Prisons, which owns the property, and to the Department of Homeland Security, urging them not to reopen the FCI Dublin site. She said the council is also in communication with Dublin’s state and federal representatives.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“While it is true that we do not have any direct influence or any direct control, we believe that we can make our feelings known,” Josey said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Democratic Reps. Eric Swalwell and Mark DeSaulnier, who represent Dublin in Congress, have both spoken out against turning the prison into an ICE facility.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12054567\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12054567\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/KernCountyICEDetentionGetty.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/KernCountyICEDetentionGetty.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/KernCountyICEDetentionGetty-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/KernCountyICEDetentionGetty-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">The CoreCivic, Inc. California City Immigration Processing Center stands in the Kern County desert awaiting reopening as a federal immigrant detention facility under contract with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in California City, California, on July 10, 2025. \u003ccite>(Patrick T. Fallon/AFP via Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Even before the Trump administration began vastly ramping up immigration enforcement, ICE was \u003ca href=\"https://calmatters.org/justice/2024/12/ice-detention-center-plan-northern-california/\">seeking additional detention \u003c/a>space in California and elsewhere in the Western U.S. Last year, the agency issued a \u003ca href=\"https://sam.gov/opp/b062f46b8208474f807af0a75e0d320f/view\">request for information about potential facilities \u003c/a>within a two-hour drive of its San Francisco field office. Today, the closest ICE lockup is nearly 300 miles away.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12054544/californias-newest-immigration-facility-is-also-its-biggest-is-it-operating-legally\">A new ICE facility opened\u003c/a> in late August in the Kern County town of California City. That facility, which is already facing \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12062774/conditions-at-massive-new-california-immigration-facility-are-alarming-report-finds\">allegations of substandard conditions\u003c/a>, is privately run, as are the other six ICE detention centers in California.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Community activists fear a planned transfer of FCI Dublin out of the ownership of the Federal Bureau of Prisons could be the first step in handing the property over to ICE or a private prison company, which could run it as an immigration detention center.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In a Dec. 4 letter to Dublin officials, the BOP said it is planning to turn the Dublin facility over to the U.S. General Services Administration, which handles federal real estate, because the property is too expensive to keep up.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The BOP has determined that the Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) located in Dublin, California (FCI Dublin), where most of the buildings and infrastructure were developed in the 1970s, is no longer needed to house inmates, requires substantial capital investment to meet standards, and is costly to operate and maintain,” the letter stated.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>After this article was published, the Department of Homeland Security said Friday that it has “nothing to announce about new detention facilities” at this time. But a spokesperson, who did not provide their name, went on to say that, with unprecedented cash provided by the tax and spending bill passed by Congress in July, “ICE now has historic funding to secure enough detention capacity to maintain an average daily population of 100,000 illegal aliens.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>ICE is currently holding a record 66,000 people in detention. At the start of Trump’s current term, the agency was detaining fewer than 40,000 people.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003c/div>\u003c/p>",
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"slug": "california-plans-to-reissue-contested-drivers-licenses-to-thousands-of-immigrants",
"title": "California Plans to Reissue Contested Driver’s Licenses to Thousands of Immigrants",
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"content": "\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Update, 11:05 a.m. Saturday: \u003c/strong>After this story was published, the California Department of Motor Vehicles \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12068027/california-delays-plan-to-reissue-commercial-licenses-drivers-mired-in-uncertainty\">announced it has paused its plan\u003c/a> to resume issuing non-domiciled commercial driver’s licenses under pressure from the Trump administration.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Original story, 3:39 p.m. Wednesday \u003c/strong>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12067524/sikh-truck-drivers-have-a-second-chance-in-california\">Thousands of immigrant truck drivers\u003c/a> are breathing a sigh of relief after \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/tag/california\">California\u003c/a> said Tuesday it’s preparing to reissue commercial licences it planned to revoke after federal pressure.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>State transportation officials confirmed that the Department of Motor Vehicles will start reissuing the contested licences to 17,000 immigrant drivers who were sent 60-day cancellation notices on Nov. 6. The agency has yet to clarify how that process will work.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I was so happy,” said Amarjit Singh, a 41-year-old truck owner and driver who worried he wouldn’t be able to support his two young children or afford the $4,000 monthly payments on his truck if the state canceled his license on Jan. 6. “This is a very big relief.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Singh, a Livermore resident whose work authorization is valid through 2029, first heard the news while making an afternoon delivery 90 miles away in Santa Rosa. He took a moment in his yellow sleeper truck cabin, with a 53-foot trailer, to pray in gratitude. When he made it home and told his wife, Zoraida, she cried, he said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It’s great news,” said Singh, who invested all his savings and borrowed money from relatives to purchase his truck in 2022 for $160,000. “It’s going to save my life, and it’s going to save my business.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067538\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12067538\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251216_REVOKE-OF-COMMERCIAL-DRIVERS-LICENSES_DECEMBER_GH-9-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251216_REVOKE-OF-COMMERCIAL-DRIVERS-LICENSES_DECEMBER_GH-9-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251216_REVOKE-OF-COMMERCIAL-DRIVERS-LICENSES_DECEMBER_GH-9-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251216_REVOKE-OF-COMMERCIAL-DRIVERS-LICENSES_DECEMBER_GH-9-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">The view from inside Amarjit Singh’s truck in Livermore, on Dec. 16, 2025. Advocates are calling on California officials to halt the planned license revocations. \u003ccite>(Gustavo Hernandez/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>The U.S. Department of Transportation threatened to pull more than $150 million in highway funding from California unless the state addressed non-domiciled commercial driver’s licenses, in which the driver’s work permit ended before the license expired, due to a DMV clerical error. A state review found at least 17,000 licenses with mismatched expiration dates, many of them held by Sikh men like Singh who fled persecution in India and sought asylum in the U.S.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The transportation and logistics industry is a major source of employment for Sikhs, a community with roots in Punjab, India, that has its largest U.S. population in California. About 150,000 Sikhs work in the trucking industry nationwide, according to \u003ca href=\"https://www.sikhcoalition.org/our-work/ending-employment-discrimination/resources-for-sikh-truck-drivers/\">estimates\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Non-domiciled CDLs, issued to noncitizens without permanent U.S. residency (or a green card), became a political flashpoint after incidents of fatal crashes involving immigrant truck drivers in Florida and other states.[aside postID=news_12067098 hero='https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/IMG_6628-2000x1500.jpg']President Donald Trump signed an \u003ca href=\"https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/04/enforcing-commonsense-rules-of-the-road-for-americas-truck-drivers/\">executive order\u003c/a> in April, reinforcing English requirements for commercial vehicle drivers. In September, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration announced an emergency rule to exclude asylum seekers, refugees and other immigrants from holding these licenses, arguing it would \u003ca href=\"https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/newsroom/trumps-transportation-secretary-sean-p-duffy-takes-emergency-action-protect-americas-roads\">improve safety\u003c/a> on the roads. About 200,000 commercial drivers with valid work permits were expected to lose their licenses and jobs as a result.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We have a vulnerable workforce here that [has] become a political football,” said Steve Viscelli, a sociology professor at the University of Pennsylvania who studies the trucking industry.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Viscelli questioned whether any reliable evidence links safe driving with immigration status. He recommended the administration focus instead on enhancing job conditions and wages in the industry, especially in long-haul trucking.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The best thing we can do for safety is to retain experienced, well-compensated professional drivers,” he said. “Experienced drivers are more knowledgeable, just more ready to handle those unexpected situations. And the problem is we can’t retain them.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>About 700,000 drivers have commercial licenses in California to operate large vehicles ranging from semi-trailers to oil tankers and school buses, according to the DMV. A federal court in Washington, D.C. halted the FMCSA rule in November after unions, drivers and others sued. The administration is preparing a permanent regulation and reviewing public comments.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067539\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12067539\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251216_REVOKE-OF-COMMERCIAL-DRIVERS-LICENSES_DECEMBER_GH-13-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251216_REVOKE-OF-COMMERCIAL-DRIVERS-LICENSES_DECEMBER_GH-13-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251216_REVOKE-OF-COMMERCIAL-DRIVERS-LICENSES_DECEMBER_GH-13-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251216_REVOKE-OF-COMMERCIAL-DRIVERS-LICENSES_DECEMBER_GH-13-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">The sleeping area inside Amarjit Singh’s truck is seen on Dec. 16, 2025, in Livermore. \u003ccite>(Gustavo Hernandez/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>The California DMV’s Nov. 6 cancellation letters said that only drivers who met the new FMCSA rule requirements may keep their commercial licenses. But the court’s decision putting that rule on hold meant the state could reissue CDLs with correct expiration dates to those who have valid work authorization and pass knowledge, skills and medical tests, according to several unions, elected officials and nonprofits that called on Gov. Gavin Newsom to intervene. Groups such as United Sikhs and the Sikh Coalition said \u003ca href=\"https://www.sikhcoalition.org/blog/2025/fateh-solution-for-truck-drivers-targeted-in-california/\">they met\u003c/a> with state officials seeking a resolution.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>A spokesperson with the California State Transportation Agency, which oversees the DMV, maintained as of early Tuesday that the agency could not issue or renew non-domiciled commercial driver’s licenses due to the FMCSA findings of mismatched dates. Members of WhatsApp driver chat groups, however, and several sources not authorized to speak with the media said they expected a good outcome for drivers would be announced soon.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Shortly after the \u003cem>San Francisco Chronicle\u003c/em> \u003ca href=\"https://www.sfchronicle.com/politics/article/california-immigrant-truck-drivers-21235419.php\">first reported\u003c/a> California’s plans to start reissuing non-domiciled CDLs for drivers, the transportation agency spokesperson confirmed to KQED the news but declined to provide more information.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12068050\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1999px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12068050\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251216_revoke-of-commercial-drivers-licenses_December_GH-16_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251216_revoke-of-commercial-drivers-licenses_December_GH-16_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251216_revoke-of-commercial-drivers-licenses_December_GH-16_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251216_revoke-of-commercial-drivers-licenses_December_GH-16_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Amarjit Singh holds a letter from the California Department of Motor Vehicles notifying him of the cancellation of his commercial driver’s license on Dec. 16, 2025, in Livermore, California. \u003ccite>(Gustavo Hernandez/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>As of Wednesday afternoon, the DMV’s website had not posted updates on the issue and drivers said they had not yet received emailed notifications of any changes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It’s unclear how federal officials will react if the state moves to reissue these licenses. The U.S. Department of Transportation did not immediately respond to a request for comment.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Bhupinder Kaur, director of operations of advocacy group United Sikhs, said many drivers have contacted the \u003ca href=\"https://unitedsikhs.org/umeed-our-247-helpline-is-a-potential-lifeline-you-are-helping-sustain-it/\">nonprofit’s helpline\u003c/a> with questions about what steps they should follow to keep their licenses.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Some reported that DMV offices they’d flocked to on Wednesday morning were still not sharing updated information.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Overall, Kaur said the ordeal left her and several relatives in the trucking business “on edge,” fearing that these licenses could still be taken away, which would threaten families’ livelihoods. She added that some Sikh drivers and logistics businesses had already lost income as a result of the uncertainty.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Immigrant truck drivers were turned into collateral damage in a federal power struggle,” Kaur said. “It should never have happened, and we hope it doesn’t happen again.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad floatright]\u003c/p>\n",
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"excerpt": "Sikh truckers and other vulnerable workers have become a “political football” in the Trump administration’s push to restrict who gets commercial driver’s licenses. ",
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"title": "California Plans to Reissue Contested Driver’s Licenses to Thousands of Immigrants | KQED",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Update, 11:05 a.m. Saturday: \u003c/strong>After this story was published, the California Department of Motor Vehicles \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12068027/california-delays-plan-to-reissue-commercial-licenses-drivers-mired-in-uncertainty\">announced it has paused its plan\u003c/a> to resume issuing non-domiciled commercial driver’s licenses under pressure from the Trump administration.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Original story, 3:39 p.m. Wednesday \u003c/strong>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12067524/sikh-truck-drivers-have-a-second-chance-in-california\">Thousands of immigrant truck drivers\u003c/a> are breathing a sigh of relief after \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/tag/california\">California\u003c/a> said Tuesday it’s preparing to reissue commercial licences it planned to revoke after federal pressure.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>State transportation officials confirmed that the Department of Motor Vehicles will start reissuing the contested licences to 17,000 immigrant drivers who were sent 60-day cancellation notices on Nov. 6. The agency has yet to clarify how that process will work.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I was so happy,” said Amarjit Singh, a 41-year-old truck owner and driver who worried he wouldn’t be able to support his two young children or afford the $4,000 monthly payments on his truck if the state canceled his license on Jan. 6. “This is a very big relief.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Singh, a Livermore resident whose work authorization is valid through 2029, first heard the news while making an afternoon delivery 90 miles away in Santa Rosa. He took a moment in his yellow sleeper truck cabin, with a 53-foot trailer, to pray in gratitude. When he made it home and told his wife, Zoraida, she cried, he said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It’s great news,” said Singh, who invested all his savings and borrowed money from relatives to purchase his truck in 2022 for $160,000. “It’s going to save my life, and it’s going to save my business.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067538\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12067538\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251216_REVOKE-OF-COMMERCIAL-DRIVERS-LICENSES_DECEMBER_GH-9-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251216_REVOKE-OF-COMMERCIAL-DRIVERS-LICENSES_DECEMBER_GH-9-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251216_REVOKE-OF-COMMERCIAL-DRIVERS-LICENSES_DECEMBER_GH-9-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251216_REVOKE-OF-COMMERCIAL-DRIVERS-LICENSES_DECEMBER_GH-9-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">The view from inside Amarjit Singh’s truck in Livermore, on Dec. 16, 2025. Advocates are calling on California officials to halt the planned license revocations. \u003ccite>(Gustavo Hernandez/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>The U.S. Department of Transportation threatened to pull more than $150 million in highway funding from California unless the state addressed non-domiciled commercial driver’s licenses, in which the driver’s work permit ended before the license expired, due to a DMV clerical error. A state review found at least 17,000 licenses with mismatched expiration dates, many of them held by Sikh men like Singh who fled persecution in India and sought asylum in the U.S.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The transportation and logistics industry is a major source of employment for Sikhs, a community with roots in Punjab, India, that has its largest U.S. population in California. About 150,000 Sikhs work in the trucking industry nationwide, according to \u003ca href=\"https://www.sikhcoalition.org/our-work/ending-employment-discrimination/resources-for-sikh-truck-drivers/\">estimates\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Non-domiciled CDLs, issued to noncitizens without permanent U.S. residency (or a green card), became a political flashpoint after incidents of fatal crashes involving immigrant truck drivers in Florida and other states.\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>President Donald Trump signed an \u003ca href=\"https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/04/enforcing-commonsense-rules-of-the-road-for-americas-truck-drivers/\">executive order\u003c/a> in April, reinforcing English requirements for commercial vehicle drivers. In September, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration announced an emergency rule to exclude asylum seekers, refugees and other immigrants from holding these licenses, arguing it would \u003ca href=\"https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/newsroom/trumps-transportation-secretary-sean-p-duffy-takes-emergency-action-protect-americas-roads\">improve safety\u003c/a> on the roads. About 200,000 commercial drivers with valid work permits were expected to lose their licenses and jobs as a result.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We have a vulnerable workforce here that [has] become a political football,” said Steve Viscelli, a sociology professor at the University of Pennsylvania who studies the trucking industry.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Viscelli questioned whether any reliable evidence links safe driving with immigration status. He recommended the administration focus instead on enhancing job conditions and wages in the industry, especially in long-haul trucking.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The best thing we can do for safety is to retain experienced, well-compensated professional drivers,” he said. “Experienced drivers are more knowledgeable, just more ready to handle those unexpected situations. And the problem is we can’t retain them.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>About 700,000 drivers have commercial licenses in California to operate large vehicles ranging from semi-trailers to oil tankers and school buses, according to the DMV. A federal court in Washington, D.C. halted the FMCSA rule in November after unions, drivers and others sued. The administration is preparing a permanent regulation and reviewing public comments.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067539\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12067539\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251216_REVOKE-OF-COMMERCIAL-DRIVERS-LICENSES_DECEMBER_GH-13-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251216_REVOKE-OF-COMMERCIAL-DRIVERS-LICENSES_DECEMBER_GH-13-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251216_REVOKE-OF-COMMERCIAL-DRIVERS-LICENSES_DECEMBER_GH-13-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251216_REVOKE-OF-COMMERCIAL-DRIVERS-LICENSES_DECEMBER_GH-13-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">The sleeping area inside Amarjit Singh’s truck is seen on Dec. 16, 2025, in Livermore. \u003ccite>(Gustavo Hernandez/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>The California DMV’s Nov. 6 cancellation letters said that only drivers who met the new FMCSA rule requirements may keep their commercial licenses. But the court’s decision putting that rule on hold meant the state could reissue CDLs with correct expiration dates to those who have valid work authorization and pass knowledge, skills and medical tests, according to several unions, elected officials and nonprofits that called on Gov. Gavin Newsom to intervene. Groups such as United Sikhs and the Sikh Coalition said \u003ca href=\"https://www.sikhcoalition.org/blog/2025/fateh-solution-for-truck-drivers-targeted-in-california/\">they met\u003c/a> with state officials seeking a resolution.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>A spokesperson with the California State Transportation Agency, which oversees the DMV, maintained as of early Tuesday that the agency could not issue or renew non-domiciled commercial driver’s licenses due to the FMCSA findings of mismatched dates. Members of WhatsApp driver chat groups, however, and several sources not authorized to speak with the media said they expected a good outcome for drivers would be announced soon.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Shortly after the \u003cem>San Francisco Chronicle\u003c/em> \u003ca href=\"https://www.sfchronicle.com/politics/article/california-immigrant-truck-drivers-21235419.php\">first reported\u003c/a> California’s plans to start reissuing non-domiciled CDLs for drivers, the transportation agency spokesperson confirmed to KQED the news but declined to provide more information.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12068050\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1999px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12068050\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251216_revoke-of-commercial-drivers-licenses_December_GH-16_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251216_revoke-of-commercial-drivers-licenses_December_GH-16_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251216_revoke-of-commercial-drivers-licenses_December_GH-16_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251216_revoke-of-commercial-drivers-licenses_December_GH-16_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Amarjit Singh holds a letter from the California Department of Motor Vehicles notifying him of the cancellation of his commercial driver’s license on Dec. 16, 2025, in Livermore, California. \u003ccite>(Gustavo Hernandez/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>As of Wednesday afternoon, the DMV’s website had not posted updates on the issue and drivers said they had not yet received emailed notifications of any changes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It’s unclear how federal officials will react if the state moves to reissue these licenses. The U.S. Department of Transportation did not immediately respond to a request for comment.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Bhupinder Kaur, director of operations of advocacy group United Sikhs, said many drivers have contacted the \u003ca href=\"https://unitedsikhs.org/umeed-our-247-helpline-is-a-potential-lifeline-you-are-helping-sustain-it/\">nonprofit’s helpline\u003c/a> with questions about what steps they should follow to keep their licenses.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Some reported that DMV offices they’d flocked to on Wednesday morning were still not sharing updated information.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Overall, Kaur said the ordeal left her and several relatives in the trucking business “on edge,” fearing that these licenses could still be taken away, which would threaten families’ livelihoods. She added that some Sikh drivers and logistics businesses had already lost income as a result of the uncertainty.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Immigrant truck drivers were turned into collateral damage in a federal power struggle,” Kaur said. “It should never have happened, and we hope it doesn’t happen again.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"title": "Expert Advice on Pulling Off a Small, Intimate City Hall Wedding (That Won’t Break the Bank)",
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"content": "\u003cp>According to Sunnyvale \u003ca href=\"https://deniselillie.com/\">wedding planner\u003c/a> Denise Lillie, the holidays are known to those in her profession as “engagement season.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But there are many reasons that couples may opt for a \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12067114/getting-married-san-francisco-bay-area-wedding-license-certificate-costs-officiant-witnesses-change-name-marriage\">smaller, simpler elopement-style ceremony\u003c/a>, she said — not least the financial pressures of a \u003ca href=\"https://www.wbur.org/cognoscenti/2024/05/22/wedding-planning-dress-cost-marriage-abbigail-shirk\">big traditional wedding\u003c/a>. According to \u003ca href=\"https://www.theknot.com/content/average-wedding-cost\">a 2025 survey of around 17,000 couples by wedding website \u003cem>The Knot\u003c/em>\u003c/a>\u003cem>, \u003c/em>the average cost of a wedding in the United States — the wedding dress, the venue, the band, the catering and so much more — is $33,000. In San Francisco, it’s $51,500.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Lillie started seeing an increase in inquiries for these types of events during the height of the pandemic, when she observed many people wanting to make the commitment quickly and save a bigger celebration for later down the line — as well as a growing appreciation for the “aesthetics” of a small, intimate wedding ceremony among Gen-Z, she said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>So if you’re one of those couples seeking to marry a partner as quickly and affordably as possible, how can you make a smaller city hall ceremony still feel special, without breaking the bank? Keep reading for advice from the wedding experts on how to make a simple, local ceremony extra enjoyable for you and your guests — whether you’re planning a larger party later or not — with particular tips for getting married at San Francisco City Hall.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And if you’re looking for a breakdown of \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12067114/getting-married-san-francisco-bay-area-wedding-license-certificate-costs-officiant-witnesses-change-name-marriage\">the logistics of getting married swiftly and affordably\u003c/a>, from marriage licenses and certificate costs to timeframes, check out our earlier guide: From Paperwork to Costs, the Basics of Getting Married in the Bay Area.\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Jump straight to: \u003ca href=\"#HowtogetmarriedinSanFranciscoCityHall\">How to get married in San Francisco City Hall\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003ch2>Know that not all costs are ‘essential’ …\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Beyond the basic costs of a marriage license and paying someone to perform your ceremony, there are a \u003cem>lot \u003c/em>of expenses people associate with weddings, said Alexis Levy, a San Francisco-based lawyer who is licensed to marry people in California: Rings, clothes, venues, “all that kind of stuff.”[aside postID=news_12067114 hero='https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-03-KQED_qed.jpg']But Levy explained that “none of those are technically legally required to get married,” and rather to see those costs as “just common pieces of a wedding.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/author/abandlamudi\">KQED’s own Adhiti Bandlamudi \u003c/a>echoed this advice for couples to work out what’s truly important to them for their own big day.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>When it came to her own civil ceremony in 2021 at San Francisco City Hall, Bandlamudi wore a white dress purchased from Anthropologie.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Afterwards, she and her loved ones gathered together in the couple’s cozy Richmond apartment, with takeout Indian pizza for catering. She even made her own gingerbread wedding cake.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>… and figure out your own priorities\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>For some couples, the emotional stress of weddings — the costs, the planning, the constant wondering of what other people and families are going to think — can burden them. But, Bandlamudi said, “it’s \u003cem>your wedding\u003c/em>.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>She recommended that couples focus on what that day means to them: “Is it the vibes? Is it the music? Is that the food?”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Once you and your partner have discussed the elements that truly matter to you, “focus on that, make it really special,” advised Bandlamudi. This will also help you eliminate certain aspects and costs you just don’t need or want.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And now that you’ve established your non-negotiables …\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Make a checklist to manage the day itself …\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>For the majority of intimate elopements or city hall weddings, “most couples really tend to manage the event themselves,” said Nilou Nouri, a \u003ca href=\"https://nilouweddings.com/\">wedding planner\u003c/a> based in the Bay Area.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But sometimes she’s looped in to make the “day a little more effortless for them,” like managing florals, guests or booking a photographer.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067145\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1999px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12067145 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251028-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-01_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251028-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-01_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251028-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-01_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251028-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-01_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Denise Lillie at San Francisco City Hall on Oct. 28, 2025. \u003ccite>(Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>While an elopement is “still a special day for you,” wedding planner Lillie said, there may be some key aspects you can overlook in the rush and excitement.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>For example, hiring a content creator — a person to film vertical videos of the ceremony optimized for posting to platforms like Instagram or TikTok — has become super popular among couples, even during shorter weddings, Lillie said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>A couple may also choose to book a photographer or hair and make-up artist. She said a lot of services can be reserved on short notice by sifting through wedding groups on social media.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Lillie suggested couples come up with a plan or checklist ahead of the ceremony — or designate tasks to friends, family or a planner.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>… and work out your day’s timeline\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Timing is important, especially since the ceremony itself is an appointment of a certain length. You and your partner can establish:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>What is the timeline for the day?\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>If you are meeting at the city hall, what time is everyone getting there? Where are you physically meeting? Remember to allow time to go through the city hall’s security.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Where will you park? (For example, “the best parking for San Francisco City Hall is under the Civic Center Plaza,” added Nouri.)\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Do you want a bouquet?\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Do you want a cake? Will it be delivered somewhere, or will someone pick it up?\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>Even just a few days of planning is worth it, Nouri said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“My advice would be to still take that personal time for yourself and do what’s important,” she said. “Not to overlook that … just because it’s on a more intimate scale.”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Consider all the free places you can take your wedding pictures\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Any public spot in San Francisco City Hall is free to take pictures, explained Nouri. And it’s such a beautiful space that Nouri “definitely” recommends springing for a professional photographer to capture your day, even if only briefly.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“There are some photographers who do City Hall specials,” she said. “Maybe you hire them for 30 minutes to 60 minutes or 90 minutes.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067266\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1999px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12067266\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-02-KQED_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-02-KQED_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-02-KQED_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-02-KQED_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Haojun Chen (right) and Kitling Zhang pose for a photo on the Grand Staircase inside San Francisco City Hall on Oct. 28, 2025. \u003ccite>(Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Other free places around San Francisco alone that are popular photography locations include public spaces like:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>The steps outside of San Francisco City Hall\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>The steps outside the Asian Art Museum, next to City Hall\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>The Palace of Fine Arts\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>The Presidio, especially \u003ca href=\"https://presidio.gov/explore/attractions/lovers-lane-trail\">Lovers Lane\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Sutro Baths\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Baker Beach\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003ch2>Case study: \u003ca id=\"HowtogetmarriedinSanFranciscoCityHall\">\u003c/a>How to get married in San Francisco City Hall\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Book your ceremony, depending on guest list and day\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I love City Hall weddings,” Nouri said. “It’s one of the most beautiful venues in San Francisco.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Given its popularity, San Francisco City Hall requires \u003ca href=\"https://sfcityhallevents.org/event-calendar/\">booking in advance\u003c/a>. If you want a large ceremony at City Hall — defined as more than six guests — \u003cem>or \u003c/em>want to get married on a weekend or holiday, you’ll have to book through \u003ca href=\"https://sfcityhallevents.org/weddings/\">the city’s events page\u003c/a>. Among its offerings is \u003ca href=\"https://sfcityhallevents.org/one-hour-weddings/\">a one-hour wedding package\u003c/a>, which costs $1,200.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you have six or fewer guests, you can \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/have-civil-marriage-or-domestic-partnership-ceremony-city-hall\">book an appointment for a smaller civil ceremony\u003c/a>. That’s what KQED’s Bandlamudi did.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067243\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1999px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12067243\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-04-KQED_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-04-KQED_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-04-KQED_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-04-KQED_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Photographers navigate posing their subjects on the grand staircase at San Francisco City Hall on Oct. 28, 2025. \u003ccite>(Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>She said while she and her parents were excited about a “traditional big Indian wedding,” she and \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11895000/how-i-met-my-husband-despite-the-global-pandemic\">her now-husband\u003c/a> wanted to have “something a little more intimate \u003cem>before \u003c/em>the wedding.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>San Francisco City Hall felt like a natural choice since “it’s already such a pretty place,” she said. “In the morning, we had our appointment at City Hall,” and had their “a very, very quick ceremony” performed by a judge.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Bandlamudi said she was surprised by how relatively easy the whole process was.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It was very simple. And anyone can do it,” she said, although she noted that they had to book the ceremony itself “pretty quickly” after \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12067114/getting-married-san-francisco-bay-area-wedding-license-certificate-costs-officiant-witnesses-change-name-marriage\">getting the license\u003c/a>.[aside postID=news_11895000 hero='https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2021/11/004_SanFrancisco_AdhitiShaishav_09162021-1020x680.jpg']San Francisco County Clerk Diane Rea said City Hall offers around thirty to forty appointments a day for their weekday ceremonies. Many of these are in the rotunda area, Rea explained, and are “short and sweet.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Consider the day and time if you \u003cem>don’t \u003c/em>want a busy scene\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In Nouri’s experience, the best times for elopement-style ceremonies at San Francisco City Hall are around 9 a.m. or 10 a.m. Midday, around 12 to 3 p.m., tends to be the busiest time, she said. And Mondays or Fridays especially bring crowds to City Hall, Nouri noted.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>For her, the busiest months for weddings at San Francisco City Hall are February, with Valentine’s Day and “2” being a lucky number in some cultures, and June, for Pride Month.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Know you’ll be sharing the space — and stay on time\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>While three couples may share an appointment, the ceremonies at San Francisco City Hall are one at a time. Rea said in the excitement of the wedding, some couples may wander off to take photos as they wait for their ceremony, but it really helps if the couple stays in the area and takes pictures \u003cem>after \u003c/em>the ceremony.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It’s really important to be on time. Because that could snowball through the day if they’re late,” she said, and couples will have the rest of the day to take pictures after the ceremony.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Keep in mind: a government space like City Hall draws people for all types of occasions, like graduation or quinceañeras. Expect to potentially run into crowds, and for noise to travel within the building.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad floatright]\u003c/p>\n",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>According to Sunnyvale \u003ca href=\"https://deniselillie.com/\">wedding planner\u003c/a> Denise Lillie, the holidays are known to those in her profession as “engagement season.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But there are many reasons that couples may opt for a \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12067114/getting-married-san-francisco-bay-area-wedding-license-certificate-costs-officiant-witnesses-change-name-marriage\">smaller, simpler elopement-style ceremony\u003c/a>, she said — not least the financial pressures of a \u003ca href=\"https://www.wbur.org/cognoscenti/2024/05/22/wedding-planning-dress-cost-marriage-abbigail-shirk\">big traditional wedding\u003c/a>. According to \u003ca href=\"https://www.theknot.com/content/average-wedding-cost\">a 2025 survey of around 17,000 couples by wedding website \u003cem>The Knot\u003c/em>\u003c/a>\u003cem>, \u003c/em>the average cost of a wedding in the United States — the wedding dress, the venue, the band, the catering and so much more — is $33,000. In San Francisco, it’s $51,500.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Lillie started seeing an increase in inquiries for these types of events during the height of the pandemic, when she observed many people wanting to make the commitment quickly and save a bigger celebration for later down the line — as well as a growing appreciation for the “aesthetics” of a small, intimate wedding ceremony among Gen-Z, she said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>So if you’re one of those couples seeking to marry a partner as quickly and affordably as possible, how can you make a smaller city hall ceremony still feel special, without breaking the bank? Keep reading for advice from the wedding experts on how to make a simple, local ceremony extra enjoyable for you and your guests — whether you’re planning a larger party later or not — with particular tips for getting married at San Francisco City Hall.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And if you’re looking for a breakdown of \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12067114/getting-married-san-francisco-bay-area-wedding-license-certificate-costs-officiant-witnesses-change-name-marriage\">the logistics of getting married swiftly and affordably\u003c/a>, from marriage licenses and certificate costs to timeframes, check out our earlier guide: From Paperwork to Costs, the Basics of Getting Married in the Bay Area.\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Jump straight to: \u003ca href=\"#HowtogetmarriedinSanFranciscoCityHall\">How to get married in San Francisco City Hall\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003ch2>Know that not all costs are ‘essential’ …\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Beyond the basic costs of a marriage license and paying someone to perform your ceremony, there are a \u003cem>lot \u003c/em>of expenses people associate with weddings, said Alexis Levy, a San Francisco-based lawyer who is licensed to marry people in California: Rings, clothes, venues, “all that kind of stuff.”\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>But Levy explained that “none of those are technically legally required to get married,” and rather to see those costs as “just common pieces of a wedding.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/author/abandlamudi\">KQED’s own Adhiti Bandlamudi \u003c/a>echoed this advice for couples to work out what’s truly important to them for their own big day.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>When it came to her own civil ceremony in 2021 at San Francisco City Hall, Bandlamudi wore a white dress purchased from Anthropologie.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Afterwards, she and her loved ones gathered together in the couple’s cozy Richmond apartment, with takeout Indian pizza for catering. She even made her own gingerbread wedding cake.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>… and figure out your own priorities\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>For some couples, the emotional stress of weddings — the costs, the planning, the constant wondering of what other people and families are going to think — can burden them. But, Bandlamudi said, “it’s \u003cem>your wedding\u003c/em>.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>She recommended that couples focus on what that day means to them: “Is it the vibes? Is it the music? Is that the food?”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Once you and your partner have discussed the elements that truly matter to you, “focus on that, make it really special,” advised Bandlamudi. This will also help you eliminate certain aspects and costs you just don’t need or want.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And now that you’ve established your non-negotiables …\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Make a checklist to manage the day itself …\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>For the majority of intimate elopements or city hall weddings, “most couples really tend to manage the event themselves,” said Nilou Nouri, a \u003ca href=\"https://nilouweddings.com/\">wedding planner\u003c/a> based in the Bay Area.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But sometimes she’s looped in to make the “day a little more effortless for them,” like managing florals, guests or booking a photographer.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067145\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1999px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12067145 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251028-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-01_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251028-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-01_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251028-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-01_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251028-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-01_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Denise Lillie at San Francisco City Hall on Oct. 28, 2025. \u003ccite>(Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>While an elopement is “still a special day for you,” wedding planner Lillie said, there may be some key aspects you can overlook in the rush and excitement.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>For example, hiring a content creator — a person to film vertical videos of the ceremony optimized for posting to platforms like Instagram or TikTok — has become super popular among couples, even during shorter weddings, Lillie said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>A couple may also choose to book a photographer or hair and make-up artist. She said a lot of services can be reserved on short notice by sifting through wedding groups on social media.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Lillie suggested couples come up with a plan or checklist ahead of the ceremony — or designate tasks to friends, family or a planner.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>… and work out your day’s timeline\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Timing is important, especially since the ceremony itself is an appointment of a certain length. You and your partner can establish:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>What is the timeline for the day?\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>If you are meeting at the city hall, what time is everyone getting there? Where are you physically meeting? Remember to allow time to go through the city hall’s security.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Where will you park? (For example, “the best parking for San Francisco City Hall is under the Civic Center Plaza,” added Nouri.)\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Do you want a bouquet?\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Do you want a cake? Will it be delivered somewhere, or will someone pick it up?\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>Even just a few days of planning is worth it, Nouri said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“My advice would be to still take that personal time for yourself and do what’s important,” she said. “Not to overlook that … just because it’s on a more intimate scale.”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Consider all the free places you can take your wedding pictures\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Any public spot in San Francisco City Hall is free to take pictures, explained Nouri. And it’s such a beautiful space that Nouri “definitely” recommends springing for a professional photographer to capture your day, even if only briefly.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“There are some photographers who do City Hall specials,” she said. “Maybe you hire them for 30 minutes to 60 minutes or 90 minutes.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067266\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1999px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12067266\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-02-KQED_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-02-KQED_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-02-KQED_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-02-KQED_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Haojun Chen (right) and Kitling Zhang pose for a photo on the Grand Staircase inside San Francisco City Hall on Oct. 28, 2025. \u003ccite>(Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Other free places around San Francisco alone that are popular photography locations include public spaces like:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>The steps outside of San Francisco City Hall\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>The steps outside the Asian Art Museum, next to City Hall\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>The Palace of Fine Arts\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>The Presidio, especially \u003ca href=\"https://presidio.gov/explore/attractions/lovers-lane-trail\">Lovers Lane\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Sutro Baths\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Baker Beach\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003ch2>Case study: \u003ca id=\"HowtogetmarriedinSanFranciscoCityHall\">\u003c/a>How to get married in San Francisco City Hall\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Book your ceremony, depending on guest list and day\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I love City Hall weddings,” Nouri said. “It’s one of the most beautiful venues in San Francisco.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Given its popularity, San Francisco City Hall requires \u003ca href=\"https://sfcityhallevents.org/event-calendar/\">booking in advance\u003c/a>. If you want a large ceremony at City Hall — defined as more than six guests — \u003cem>or \u003c/em>want to get married on a weekend or holiday, you’ll have to book through \u003ca href=\"https://sfcityhallevents.org/weddings/\">the city’s events page\u003c/a>. Among its offerings is \u003ca href=\"https://sfcityhallevents.org/one-hour-weddings/\">a one-hour wedding package\u003c/a>, which costs $1,200.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you have six or fewer guests, you can \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/have-civil-marriage-or-domestic-partnership-ceremony-city-hall\">book an appointment for a smaller civil ceremony\u003c/a>. That’s what KQED’s Bandlamudi did.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067243\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1999px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12067243\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-04-KQED_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-04-KQED_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-04-KQED_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-04-KQED_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Photographers navigate posing their subjects on the grand staircase at San Francisco City Hall on Oct. 28, 2025. \u003ccite>(Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>She said while she and her parents were excited about a “traditional big Indian wedding,” she and \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11895000/how-i-met-my-husband-despite-the-global-pandemic\">her now-husband\u003c/a> wanted to have “something a little more intimate \u003cem>before \u003c/em>the wedding.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>San Francisco City Hall felt like a natural choice since “it’s already such a pretty place,” she said. “In the morning, we had our appointment at City Hall,” and had their “a very, very quick ceremony” performed by a judge.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Bandlamudi said she was surprised by how relatively easy the whole process was.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It was very simple. And anyone can do it,” she said, although she noted that they had to book the ceremony itself “pretty quickly” after \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12067114/getting-married-san-francisco-bay-area-wedding-license-certificate-costs-officiant-witnesses-change-name-marriage\">getting the license\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>San Francisco County Clerk Diane Rea said City Hall offers around thirty to forty appointments a day for their weekday ceremonies. Many of these are in the rotunda area, Rea explained, and are “short and sweet.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Consider the day and time if you \u003cem>don’t \u003c/em>want a busy scene\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In Nouri’s experience, the best times for elopement-style ceremonies at San Francisco City Hall are around 9 a.m. or 10 a.m. Midday, around 12 to 3 p.m., tends to be the busiest time, she said. And Mondays or Fridays especially bring crowds to City Hall, Nouri noted.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>For her, the busiest months for weddings at San Francisco City Hall are February, with Valentine’s Day and “2” being a lucky number in some cultures, and June, for Pride Month.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Know you’ll be sharing the space — and stay on time\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>While three couples may share an appointment, the ceremonies at San Francisco City Hall are one at a time. Rea said in the excitement of the wedding, some couples may wander off to take photos as they wait for their ceremony, but it really helps if the couple stays in the area and takes pictures \u003cem>after \u003c/em>the ceremony.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It’s really important to be on time. Because that could snowball through the day if they’re late,” she said, and couples will have the rest of the day to take pictures after the ceremony.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Keep in mind: a government space like City Hall draws people for all types of occasions, like graduation or quinceañeras. Expect to potentially run into crowds, and for noise to travel within the building.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"title": "This Lawsuit Aims to Block California’s New K-12 Antisemitism Law",
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"headTitle": "This Lawsuit Aims to Block California’s New K-12 Antisemitism Law | KQED",
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"content": "\u003cp>A coalition of teachers and students is suing to block the implementation of a new \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12055560/controversial-ca-bill-to-combat-antisemitism-in-schools-races-against-legislative-clock\">California law that aims to address antisemitism \u003c/a>concerns in K-12 public schools, amid ongoing debate over how classrooms can approach the latest conflict in the Middle East.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>A judge is expected to hear arguments on Wednesday at the Northern District of California’s San José division. The lawsuit, filed by Jenin Younes, national legal director of the American-Arab Anti-discrimination Committee, claims that \u003ca href=\"https://legiscan.com/CA/text/AB715/id/3269818\">AB 715\u003c/a>, which is set to take effect Jan. 1, 2026, is unconstitutionally vague.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The real purpose of the bill is to chill the speech of teachers and students so that they’re afraid to talk about anything that could be deemed critical of Israel,” Younes said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>AB 715 adds to existing anti-discrimination state law through the creation of a governor-appointed Antisemitism Prevention Coordinator under a new California Office of Civil Rights. Proponents of AB 715 have said the coordinator will track antisemitic incidents at schools, help respond to cases and make policy recommendations to the state Legislature\u003cem>. \u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The coordinator will also be tasked with training schools to identify antisemitism. The state law directs districts to rely on the Biden administration’s National \u003ca href=\"https://bidenwhitehouse.archives.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/U.S.-National-Strategy-to-Counter-Antisemitism.pdf\">Strategy\u003c/a> to Counter Antisemitism. This federal guide, in turn, refers to the \u003ca href=\"https://holocaustremembrance.com/resources/working-definition-antisemitism?__cf_chl_tk=MqqkOuqzgEw_sPLZk3uaHpHsppz2V_czSKvLy7GL.QM-1765759821-1.0.1.1-B1BsiVRBbMMDzlaBsFOImvLNsuJWznftqkSyjzryE6Y\">working definition\u003c/a> of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12011951\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003ca href=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/241031-BORDER-CROSSINGS-ZM-16-KQED.jpg\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12011951\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/241031-BORDER-CROSSINGS-ZM-16-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1334\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/241031-BORDER-CROSSINGS-ZM-16-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/241031-BORDER-CROSSINGS-ZM-16-KQED-800x534.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/241031-BORDER-CROSSINGS-ZM-16-KQED-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/241031-BORDER-CROSSINGS-ZM-16-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/241031-BORDER-CROSSINGS-ZM-16-KQED-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/241031-BORDER-CROSSINGS-ZM-16-KQED-1920x1281.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003c/a>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Children play outside at the Jewish Family Services shelter for migrants in San Diego, Sept. 19, 2024. \u003ccite>(Zoë Meyers for KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>The Alliance’s definition includes 11 bullet-pointed descriptors of anti-Jewish bias. More than half of the list cites Israel, such as “claiming the existence of a State of Israel is a racist endeavor,” “applying double standards by requiring of it a behavior not expected or demanded of any other democratic nation” and “accusing Jewish citizens of being more loyal to Israel.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Earlier iterations of AB 715 echoed — and expanded — on the IHRA’s definition. According to those versions — later stricken — an antisemitic learning environment could mean classrooms where instruction or materials assert “dual loyalty directed at Jewish individuals or communities,” “inaccurate historical narratives such as labeling Israel a settler colonial state” or discriminating against a “nationality,” including “a social organization where a collective identity has emerged from a combination of shared features.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The earlier iterations were pretty crazy,“ said Younes, who has argued that the final version of AB 715 has the same effect “surreptitiously.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It’s been an incredibly frustrating process,” said David Bocarsly, executive director of the Jewish Public Affairs Committee of California and one of the main backers of the law.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Bocarsly said the committee started off its efforts as California mandated new ethnic studies courses to ensure they didn’t include antisemitic content. \u003ca href=\"https://calmatters.org/politics/2025/10/school-antisemitism-bill-signed/\">After pushback from educators\u003c/a>, he said proponents decided to set their sights instead on protecting Jewish students more generally — in what eventually became AB 715. (A companion law, \u003ca href=\"https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billCompareClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260SB48&showamends=false\">SB 48\u003c/a>, creates four similar coordinator positions for religion, race, gender and LGBTQ+ discrimination prevention.)\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>“\u003c/strong>So, even this one bill that we asked to be focused just on the Jewish community because there was a particular acute need for our community, where there were opportunities to expand and support other vulnerable communities, we ultimately leapt at those opportunities,” Bocarsly said.[aside postID=news_12066489 hero='https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/Peyrin-Kao-1-2-2000x1123.jpg']Teachers still weren’t on board with revisions to AB 715. In a statement, David Goldberg, president of the California Teachers Association, the union that represents teachers in the state, said the law “raises serious free speech concerns” and “at a time when too many are seeking to attack academic freedom and weaponize public education, AB 715 would unfortunately arm ill-intentioned people with the ability to do so.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The new law allows the public to anonymously file complaints not just about teacher materials they believe are discriminatory, but also instruction.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>“\u003c/strong>Anytime that I meet with more than two teachers who are ethnic studies teachers in a group, this is one of the things that comes up. It’s like, ‘Hey, no one knows all the things that’re happening to us, and no one is really helping us,’” said Jason Muñiz, who supports around 500 Bay Area teachers in ethnic studies each year as part of his work with the University of California at Berkeley’s History-Social Science Project.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Muñiz said dozens of teachers have described becoming the subject of legal inquiries, including public records requests, related to lessons that touch on Judaism, Islam or the Middle East.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Bocarsly acknowledged the pressure that academic institutions face, noting that JPAC has spoken out against the \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12056118/uc-labor-groups-sue-trump-over-coercive-antisemitism-investigations-and-demands\">Trump administration’s attempts to use antisemitism legislation\u003c/a> as an excuse to cut school funding or diversity programs.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We have gone through three different iterations of bills, have taken so many of [the educators’] recommendations, and they continue to move the goalposts and oppose everything that we do,” said Bocarsly, who considers the alleged lack of willingness to focus on Jewish student safety itself discrimination. “I think that there’s some implicit bias happening here.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In the state’s official response to the motion for an injunction, California Attorney General Rob Bonta has argued that AB 715 does not create a new, undefined type of civil rights violation. He has said that fears of unfounded discrimination claims could happen under existing law and are not enough reason to block AB 715.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n",
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"excerpt": "Opponents of AB 715, which was born out of antisemitism concerns after the recent war in Gaza, argue that the state law actually interferes with free speech in classrooms.\r\n",
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"title": "This Lawsuit Aims to Block California’s New K-12 Antisemitism Law | KQED",
"description": "Opponents of AB 715, which was born out of antisemitism concerns after the recent war in Gaza, argue that the state law actually interferes with free speech in classrooms.\r\n",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>A coalition of teachers and students is suing to block the implementation of a new \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12055560/controversial-ca-bill-to-combat-antisemitism-in-schools-races-against-legislative-clock\">California law that aims to address antisemitism \u003c/a>concerns in K-12 public schools, amid ongoing debate over how classrooms can approach the latest conflict in the Middle East.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>A judge is expected to hear arguments on Wednesday at the Northern District of California’s San José division. The lawsuit, filed by Jenin Younes, national legal director of the American-Arab Anti-discrimination Committee, claims that \u003ca href=\"https://legiscan.com/CA/text/AB715/id/3269818\">AB 715\u003c/a>, which is set to take effect Jan. 1, 2026, is unconstitutionally vague.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The real purpose of the bill is to chill the speech of teachers and students so that they’re afraid to talk about anything that could be deemed critical of Israel,” Younes said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>AB 715 adds to existing anti-discrimination state law through the creation of a governor-appointed Antisemitism Prevention Coordinator under a new California Office of Civil Rights. Proponents of AB 715 have said the coordinator will track antisemitic incidents at schools, help respond to cases and make policy recommendations to the state Legislature\u003cem>. \u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The coordinator will also be tasked with training schools to identify antisemitism. The state law directs districts to rely on the Biden administration’s National \u003ca href=\"https://bidenwhitehouse.archives.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/U.S.-National-Strategy-to-Counter-Antisemitism.pdf\">Strategy\u003c/a> to Counter Antisemitism. This federal guide, in turn, refers to the \u003ca href=\"https://holocaustremembrance.com/resources/working-definition-antisemitism?__cf_chl_tk=MqqkOuqzgEw_sPLZk3uaHpHsppz2V_czSKvLy7GL.QM-1765759821-1.0.1.1-B1BsiVRBbMMDzlaBsFOImvLNsuJWznftqkSyjzryE6Y\">working definition\u003c/a> of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12011951\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003ca href=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/241031-BORDER-CROSSINGS-ZM-16-KQED.jpg\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12011951\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/241031-BORDER-CROSSINGS-ZM-16-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1334\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/241031-BORDER-CROSSINGS-ZM-16-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/241031-BORDER-CROSSINGS-ZM-16-KQED-800x534.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/241031-BORDER-CROSSINGS-ZM-16-KQED-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/241031-BORDER-CROSSINGS-ZM-16-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/241031-BORDER-CROSSINGS-ZM-16-KQED-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/241031-BORDER-CROSSINGS-ZM-16-KQED-1920x1281.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003c/a>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Children play outside at the Jewish Family Services shelter for migrants in San Diego, Sept. 19, 2024. \u003ccite>(Zoë Meyers for KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>The Alliance’s definition includes 11 bullet-pointed descriptors of anti-Jewish bias. More than half of the list cites Israel, such as “claiming the existence of a State of Israel is a racist endeavor,” “applying double standards by requiring of it a behavior not expected or demanded of any other democratic nation” and “accusing Jewish citizens of being more loyal to Israel.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Earlier iterations of AB 715 echoed — and expanded — on the IHRA’s definition. According to those versions — later stricken — an antisemitic learning environment could mean classrooms where instruction or materials assert “dual loyalty directed at Jewish individuals or communities,” “inaccurate historical narratives such as labeling Israel a settler colonial state” or discriminating against a “nationality,” including “a social organization where a collective identity has emerged from a combination of shared features.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The earlier iterations were pretty crazy,“ said Younes, who has argued that the final version of AB 715 has the same effect “surreptitiously.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It’s been an incredibly frustrating process,” said David Bocarsly, executive director of the Jewish Public Affairs Committee of California and one of the main backers of the law.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Bocarsly said the committee started off its efforts as California mandated new ethnic studies courses to ensure they didn’t include antisemitic content. \u003ca href=\"https://calmatters.org/politics/2025/10/school-antisemitism-bill-signed/\">After pushback from educators\u003c/a>, he said proponents decided to set their sights instead on protecting Jewish students more generally — in what eventually became AB 715. (A companion law, \u003ca href=\"https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billCompareClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260SB48&showamends=false\">SB 48\u003c/a>, creates four similar coordinator positions for religion, race, gender and LGBTQ+ discrimination prevention.)\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>“\u003c/strong>So, even this one bill that we asked to be focused just on the Jewish community because there was a particular acute need for our community, where there were opportunities to expand and support other vulnerable communities, we ultimately leapt at those opportunities,” Bocarsly said.\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>Teachers still weren’t on board with revisions to AB 715. In a statement, David Goldberg, president of the California Teachers Association, the union that represents teachers in the state, said the law “raises serious free speech concerns” and “at a time when too many are seeking to attack academic freedom and weaponize public education, AB 715 would unfortunately arm ill-intentioned people with the ability to do so.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The new law allows the public to anonymously file complaints not just about teacher materials they believe are discriminatory, but also instruction.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>“\u003c/strong>Anytime that I meet with more than two teachers who are ethnic studies teachers in a group, this is one of the things that comes up. It’s like, ‘Hey, no one knows all the things that’re happening to us, and no one is really helping us,’” said Jason Muñiz, who supports around 500 Bay Area teachers in ethnic studies each year as part of his work with the University of California at Berkeley’s History-Social Science Project.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Muñiz said dozens of teachers have described becoming the subject of legal inquiries, including public records requests, related to lessons that touch on Judaism, Islam or the Middle East.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Bocarsly acknowledged the pressure that academic institutions face, noting that JPAC has spoken out against the \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12056118/uc-labor-groups-sue-trump-over-coercive-antisemitism-investigations-and-demands\">Trump administration’s attempts to use antisemitism legislation\u003c/a> as an excuse to cut school funding or diversity programs.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We have gone through three different iterations of bills, have taken so many of [the educators’] recommendations, and they continue to move the goalposts and oppose everything that we do,” said Bocarsly, who considers the alleged lack of willingness to focus on Jewish student safety itself discrimination. “I think that there’s some implicit bias happening here.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In the state’s official response to the motion for an injunction, California Attorney General Rob Bonta has argued that AB 715 does not create a new, undefined type of civil rights violation. He has said that fears of unfounded discrimination claims could happen under existing law and are not enough reason to block AB 715.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003c/div>\u003c/p>",
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"slug": "getting-married-san-francisco-bay-area-wedding-license-certificate-costs-officiant-witnesses-change-name-marriage",
"title": "From Paperwork to Costs, the Basics of Getting Married in the Bay Area",
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"content": "\u003cp>When I told KQED coworkers I was working on a guide to getting married quickly, my fundraising colleague Lilly Payne joked that she and her wife got married “for love and health insurance.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>To be clear, the plan was always to \u003cem>get \u003c/em>married. “She’s the love of my life. She’s my favorite person,” Payne said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But she explained she had to accelerate her wedding plans in 2023 to be able to keep her then-fiancée insured before a big move the very same week. This rapid change in circumstance delayed the couple’s plan for a larger ceremony in favor of backyard vows conducted by an ordained neighbor, and witnessed by their friends and their dog, Oliver.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We didn’t have rings yet, but we had matching baseball caps,” Payne laughed.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And while this quick approach was admittedly “not what we were expecting at all,” said Payne, the tradeoff of cementing the couple’s legal partnership for their joint health and happiness was, for them, worth it.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>When a speedy wedding feels right\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Payne was by no means alone in choosing to formalize a partnership earlier than originally planned for practical reasons. In the United States, where access to good healthcare is often tied to employment or marriage, \u003ca href=\"https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/blog/living-single/202103/its-not-just-love-some-stay-married-the-health-insurance\">health insurance can be a large motivator\u003c/a> — as can financial pressures in general.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>People may choose elopements, that is, quicker or smaller ceremonies, for a variety of reasons, Sunnyvale \u003ca href=\"https://deniselillie.com/\">wedding planner\u003c/a> Denise Lillie said. She started seeing an increase in inquiries for these types of events during the height of the pandemic, when she observed many people wanting to make the commitment quickly — and celebrate later.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067145\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1999px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12067145 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251028-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-01_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251028-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-01_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251028-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-01_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251028-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-01_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Denise Lillie at San Francicsco City Hall on Oct. 28, 2025. \u003ccite>(Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Lillie said planners like her have also received requests from LGBTQ+ couples concerned about the future of marriage equality.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Even though the \u003ca href=\"https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/supreme-court/supreme-court-rejects-long-shot-effort-overturn-sex-marriage-ruling-rcna241113\">Supreme Court rejected the latest request\u003c/a> to overturn the U.S.’s landmark same-sex marriage ruling in early November, some couples have \u003ca href=\"https://time.com/7297484/obergefell-anniversary-trump-gay-marriage/\">expressed anxiety about the future of equal marriage\u003c/a> under President Donald Trump’s\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12023784/after-trumps-order-on-two-genders-trans-rights-groups-taking-action\"> second administration\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The aesthetics of a small, intimate wedding ceremony — sometimes followed up by a bigger party later down the line — has also gained in popularity among Gen-Z, Lillie said.[aside postID=news_12067194 hero='https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/WeddingsGetty2.jpg']And then, there are the undoubted financial pressures of the \u003ca href=\"https://www.wbur.org/cognoscenti/2024/05/22/wedding-planning-dress-cost-marriage-abbigail-shirk\">big traditional wedding\u003c/a>: According to \u003ca href=\"https://www.theknot.com/content/average-wedding-cost\">a 2025 survey of around 17,000 couples by wedding website \u003cem>The Knot\u003c/em>\u003c/a>\u003cem>, \u003c/em>the average cost of a wedding in the United States is $33,000. In San Francisco, it’s $51,500.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In the midst of the holidays, also known as “engagement season” to wedding planners like Lillie, if you’re someone seeking to marry a partner as quickly and affordably as possible, you may be wondering: What are the logistics of getting married? What kind of paperwork do you actually need, and what are the timeframes — and costs?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Keep reading for the breakdown — and bear in mind that since the following doesn’t constitute legal advice, it’s always a good idea to speak to a lawyer about marriage licenses, name change options, finances and more when it comes to your own circumstances.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And if you’re looking for specific ways to make a small, simple ceremony feel special, check out our \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12067194/san-francisco-city-hall-wedding-ceremony-how-to-plan-small-simple-marriage\">advice from wedding experts\u003c/a> for making the most of your intimate ceremony, with particular tips for getting married at San Francisco City Hall.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>The paperwork basics of getting married\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>To be formally married in California, you’ll need to obtain two documents:\u003c/p>\n\u003col>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>A marriage license\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ol>\n\u003cp>This document authorizes your marriage to take place in California.\u003c/p>\n\u003col start=\"2\">\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>A marriage certificate\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ol>\n\u003cp>This document then acts as the proof of your marriage “through the county and state’s eyes,” said Alexis Levy, a San Francisco-based lawyer who is licensed to marry people in California.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Getting your marriage license\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>How do I get a marriage license in California?\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>A marriage license is essentially a permit to get married, although you won’t be legally married \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/get-marriage-license\">until you have a ceremony.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>To obtain a license, both partners should already be unmarried and over 18. (\u003ca href=\"https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sdcourt/juvenile3/juvenilemarriagelicenses3#:~:text=California%20law%20requires%20a%20person,the%20discretion%20of%20the%20court.\">People under 18\u003c/a>, \u003ca href=\"https://smcacre.gov/county-clerk-recorder/applicant-cannot-physically-appear-person\">incarcerated\u003c/a>, \u003ca href=\"https://smcacre.gov/county-clerk-recorder/applicant-cannot-physically-appear-person\">hospitalized\u003c/a> or \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/information--special-case-weddings\">in active military duty\u003c/a> have separate procedures for getting married.)\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In California, the process for obtaining a marriage license varies by county, and you’ll often be asked to complete an application online before picking up the license.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12058872\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1999px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12058872\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/10/230808-SanFranciscoCityHall-23-BL_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/10/230808-SanFranciscoCityHall-23-BL_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/10/230808-SanFranciscoCityHall-23-BL_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/10/230808-SanFranciscoCityHall-23-BL_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">City Hall is reflected in the Veterans Building in San Francisco on Aug. 8, 2023. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>For example, in \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/get-marriage-license\">San Francisco\u003c/a>, \u003ca href=\"https://smcacre.gov/county-clerk-recorder/applying-marriage-license\">San Mateo\u003c/a> and \u003ca href=\"https://www.napacounty.gov/1327/Marriage-License-Ceremony\">Napa County\u003c/a>, you need to book an appointment to pick up your license. In \u003ca href=\"https://www.acgov.org/auditor/clerk/bdm/marrlic.htm\">Alameda County\u003c/a>, the process is done through \u003ca href=\"https://auditor.alamedacountyca.gov/clerk-recorder-marriage-services-virtual/\">a video conference call\u003c/a>. In \u003ca href=\"https://clerkrecorder.santaclaracounty.gov/marriage-birth-and-death/apply-marriage-license\">Santa Clara\u003c/a>, \u003ca href=\"https://www.contracostavote.gov/countyclerk/ceremony-information/\">Contra Costa\u003c/a>, \u003ca href=\"https://www.arcc.marincounty.gov/services/marriage-birth-and-death/applying-marriage-license\">Marin\u003c/a>, \u003ca href=\"https://sonomacounty.gov/administrative-support-and-fiscal-services/clerk-recorder-assessor/clerk-recorder/clerk-services/marriage-license\">Sonoma\u003c/a>, and \u003ca href=\"https://www.solanocounty.gov/government/treasurer-tax-collector-county-clerk/county-clerk/marriage-license\">Solano\u003c/a>, marriage licenses are issued on a walk-in basis only.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>When going to the county clerk’s office to get your license, you usually will need to bring a valid government-issued ID. Both parties need to be present.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Do I need to get a marriage license in the county I live in? Or the county I intend to get married in?\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/Types-of-Marriage-Licenses-.aspx\">You can actually get a marriage license from any California county\u003c/a>, as long as your marriage ceremony takes place in California. You don’t have to live in that county or get married in that county.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This may offer you some convenience and flexibility if, for example, appointments for marriage licenses are scarce in the county you live in.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Are there different kinds of marriage licenses?\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>There are two different types of licenses that a couple can obtain, which impact costs.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Most couples choose what’s called a “\u003ca href=\"https://clerkrecorder.santaclaracounty.gov/marriage-birth-and-death/apply-marriage-license\"> public marriage license\u003c/a>,” which allows the marriage to be \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/get-marriage-license\">a public record\u003c/a> and requires a witness at the ceremony. These licenses cost around \u003ca href=\"https://clerkrecorder.santaclaracounty.gov/marriage-birth-and-death/apply-marriage-license\">$80\u003c/a> to \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/information--fees-county-clerk-services\">$127\u003c/a>, depending on the county. Most couples \u003ca href=\"https://clerkrecorder.santaclaracounty.gov/marriage-birth-and-death/apply-marriage-license\">opt for this license\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067155\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12067155\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/WeddingRings_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1125\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/WeddingRings_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/WeddingRings_qed-160x90.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/WeddingRings_qed-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/WeddingRings_qed-1200x675.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A pair of wedding rings on June 27, 2013. \u003ccite>(Christoph Edel/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>A “confidential marriage license” means that the marriage record is available \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/get-marriage-license\">only to the couple\u003c/a> or by \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/Types-of-Marriage-Licenses-.aspx\">court order from the same county\u003c/a>. These ceremonies require no witnesses, but the couple must also already \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/get-marriage-license\">live together\u003c/a> to be eligible for a confidential marriage license. These licenses typically cost a little more than public marriage licenses: For example, in \u003ca href=\"https://clerkrecorder.santaclaracounty.gov/marriage-birth-and-death/apply-marriage-license\">Santa Clara County\u003c/a>, the standard marriage license is $80, and the confidential marriage license is $83.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>How quickly can I get a marriage license? \u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It depends on how busy the office is, but an appointment for a license can take \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/step-by-step--get-married-san-francisco\">as little as \u003c/a>\u003ca href=\"https://www.solanocounty.gov/government/treasurer-tax-collector-county-clerk/county-clerk/marriage-license\">half an hour\u003c/a>. A \u003ca href=\"https://media.api.sf.gov/documents/2018_Public_Marriage_License_Application_09.13.18_nPUtUdp.pdf\">marriage license application\u003c/a> itself is around a page and a half.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The real key about the marriage license is to keep it safe,” San Francisco County Clerk Diane Rea said. “I know it looks like a piece of paper, but it becomes your record in the end.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>She said there could be instances where the license could be rejected if it is ripped or has coffee stains, and you may have to buy it all over again.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Having a wedding ceremony and obtaining your marriage certificate\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>How quickly do we have to \u003cem>get \u003c/em>married after getting the license? \u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Once you have the license, you must get married within \u003ca href=\"https://www.contracostavote.gov/countyclerk/ceremony-information/\">90 days of the date\u003c/a>, and if you don’t, you’ll need to obtain a new license.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you’re looking to really speed up the process, you could get married in the County Clerk-Recorder’s office on the same day, depending on the county. However, remember some counties will require some kind of \u003ca href=\"https://apps.smcacre.org/marsched/schedule.aspx\">booking\u003c/a> or appointment for \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/have-civil-marriage-or-domestic-partnership-ceremony-city-hall\">a civil ceremony\u003c/a>, so don’t necessarily expect to get a “walk-in wedding.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067535\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12067535 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-04-KQED-67.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1334\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-04-KQED-67.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-04-KQED-67-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-04-KQED-67-1536x1025.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Photographers pose their subjects for engagement and quinceañera photos on the grand staircase at San Francisco City Hall on Oct. 28, 2025.\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>But, truly, as long as you have the necessary witnesses and someone qualified to officiate, a ceremony can be \u003cem>anywhere\u003c/em>: a backyard, a bar, a park, a movie theater.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Remember to bring the license and government identification to the ceremony.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Do I need witnesses? \u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you have a public marriage license in California, \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/Marriage-Officiant-Frequently-Asked-Questions.aspx\">you need at least one witness and at most two witnesses\u003c/a>. They will sign your marriage certificate.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Who can marry couples in California?\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>According to \u003ca href=\"https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displayText.xhtml?lawCode=FAM&division=3.&title=&part=3.&chapter=1.&article=\">California law\u003c/a>, a wedding officiant can be someone, such as a judge, specific county staff, religious figures like priests or rabbis or current and former elected officials.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In \u003ca href=\"https://clerkrecorder.santaclaracounty.gov/services/become-one-day-deputy-commissioner\">some counties\u003c/a>, anyone can be \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/become-deputy-marriage-commissioner-day\">a marriage commissioner\u003c/a> for a day for a specific couple as long as they are over 18, fill out paperwork and are willing to take an oath to uphold the state and national constitutions. The price for this process ranges from county to county and could be around $80 to \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/information--fees-county-clerk-services\">$182\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Levy said the entities like \u003ca href=\"https://getordained.org/landing/get-ordained?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=17232247909&gbraid=0AAAAADmMFGbYO-pl25X5g29z3BCIfgj12&gclid=CjwKCAjwxfjGBhAUEiwAKWPwDmoFDHZl8Cocq5vHjZw-uAOcF6kEPs-sy4e0ECVBXL5o4LwAPWW1BRoCEDoQAvD_BwE\">the Universal Life Church\u003c/a> — “which is basically a completely non-denominational, non-doctrinal church” — also allow people to get ordained and officiate weddings. While anyone over 18 can get ordained, there are specific rules to know for officiating a wedding. The Universal Life Church has \u003ca href=\"https://getordained.org/perform-a-marriage/california\">a guide on how to get ordained in the state of California\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12029447\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12029447 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/250226-NAMEGENDERMARKERS-03-BL-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/250226-NAMEGENDERMARKERS-03-BL-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/250226-NAMEGENDERMARKERS-03-BL-KQED-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/250226-NAMEGENDERMARKERS-03-BL-KQED-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/250226-NAMEGENDERMARKERS-03-BL-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/250226-NAMEGENDERMARKERS-03-BL-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/250226-NAMEGENDERMARKERS-03-BL-KQED-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Attorney Alexis Levy poses for a portrait outside the Civic Center Courthouse in San Francisco on Feb. 26, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Does location matter?\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>As long as you get married in California, you do not need to get married in the county where you got your marriage license, said Levy, or the county where you live.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But if you want to get married in another \u003cem>state\u003c/em>, you should first get a marriage license in that state. For example, if you are having a Las Vegas wedding, you should obtain your marriage license in Nevada, since “their rules are very different than California’s,” cautioned Levy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>What paperwork do I need to do after the wedding? \u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Levy stressed that you must record the marriage certificate within 10 days of the wedding, with \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/step-by-step--get-married-san-francisco\">the county clerk where the certificate was issued\u003c/a>, which may well be a different county than the one in which you obtained your marriage license. Sometimes officiants will do the recording for you, which you should establish beforehand.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You should also request a copy of the marriage certificate from the county where it was issued.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>With all this in mind, what’s the lowest cost I could get married for?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>For the basics, you should factor in:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>The cost of your marriage license, plus\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>The cost of any civil ceremony in a city hall, plus\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>The cost of any county official who’s marrying you\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>The cost of obtaining a copy of your marriage certificate\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>For example, in \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/information--fees-county-clerk-services\">San Francisco County\u003c/a>, a public marriage license is $127, a civil marriage ceremony in the city hall is $111 and an additional copy of a marriage certificate is $17.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Another example, in \u003ca href=\"https://smcacre.gov/county-clerk-recorder/marriage-fees\">San Mateo County\u003c/a>, a public marriage license is $79, and a civil marriage ceremony is $65. A deputized marriage commissioner is $60. A duplicate of the marriage certificate is $5.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067531\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1999px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12067531 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-05-KQED_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-05-KQED_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-05-KQED_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-05-KQED_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Echo Xi (right) and Colin Kou pose for engagement photos at San Francisco City Hall on Oct. 28, 2025. \u003ccite>(Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>“There [are] a lot of other costs that people associate with weddings. With rings and with outfits and venues and all that kind of stuff,” Levy said. “None of those are technically legally required to get married. They’re just common pieces of a wedding.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And if they wish, couples can find many ways of keeping costs down with personal touches. KQED’s own Adhiti Bandlamudi echoed this advice for couples to work out what’s truly important to them for their own big day. When it came to her own civil ceremony in 2021, Bandlamudi wore a white dress purchased from Anthropologie. Afterwards, she and her loved ones gathered together in the couple’s Richmond apartment, with takeout Indian pizza for catering. She even made her own gingerbread wedding cake.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>For some couples, the emotional stress of weddings, the costs, the planning, the constant wondering of what other people and families are going to think can burden them. But, Bandlamudi said, “it’s \u003cem>your wedding\u003c/em>.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>She recommended that couples focus on what that day means to them: “Is it the vibes? Is it the music? Is that the food?”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Once you and your partner have discussed the elements that truly matter to you, “focus on that, make it really special,” advised Bandlamudi.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>And finally: The serious questions to think about when planning your speedy wedding\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Will you and your new spouse be sharing health benefits?\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Getting married is considered a “qualifying event,” Levy said, when an insurance policy can be changed. And technically, health benefits held through an employer — or through Covered California, the state’s own marketplace through the Affordable Care Act — “can be applied to the other spouse immediately upon marriage,” they said.[aside postID=news_12058992 hero='https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/10/CAT-%E2%80%94-DatingPan_Thumbnail-2000x1125.jpg']Generally, Levy said, employer-sponsored healthcare and Covered California will be granted retroactively to the date of the marriage, and for \u003ca href=\"https://www.coveredca.com/marketing-blog/just-married-health-insurance-for-your-spouse-and-you/\">Covered California\u003c/a>, you can enroll up to 60 days after the marriage. But “practically speaking, it may not actually go into effect \u003cem>immediately \u003c/em>because there’s always some lag time for the paperwork to process,” they added.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Bear in mind that some large employers are obligated to cover dependents with health care but \u003ca href=\"https://www.coveredca.com/marketing-blog/just-married-health-insurance-for-your-spouse-and-you/\">not a spouse\u003c/a>, and that you should always check these details before your marriage.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you are on \u003ca href=\"https://www.dhcs.ca.gov/Medi-Cal/Pages/update-information.aspx\">Medi-Cal\u003c/a>, you will need to report your marriage on BenefitsCal or to your county 10 days after the event.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Does one or both of you want to change your name? \u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Rea said it is important for couples to consider if one or both spouses want to change their name, and to have made the decision before their marriage license appointment.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“If they do not do it right then and there, then they need to go to the courts to change it later,” Rea explained.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Keep in mind, you can’t \u003ca href=\"https://www.contracostavote.gov/countyclerk/ceremony-information/change-name-on-marriage-license/\">change your \u003cem>first \u003c/em>name\u003c/a> through this method, but you can change \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/CDPH%20Document%20Library/ADA_The%20Name%20Equality%20Act%20of%202007%20(01-18).pdf\">your last name\u003c/a> in the following ways:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>The current last name of the other spouse\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>The last name of either spouse given at birth\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>A combination of last names\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>You can change \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/CDPH%20Document%20Library/ADA_The%20Name%20Equality%20Act%20of%202007%20(01-18).pdf\">your middle name\u003c/a> in the following ways:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>The current last name of either spouse\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>The last name of either spouse given at birth\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>A combination of the current middle name and the current last name of the person or spouse\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>A combination of the current middle name and the birth last name of the person or spouse\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>Neither party can completely drop an existing middle name.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>After the marriage ceremony, and after the marriage certificate is recorded with the county, you will then need to update your Social Security record and \u003ca href=\"https://selfhelp.courts.ca.gov/name-change/marriage\">your state and federal IDs\u003c/a>. To aid you, KQED has a thorough \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12029428/how-californians-can-start-changing-names-and-gender-markers-on-government-ids\">guide on name changes (and gender marker updates)\u003c/a> in California.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad floatright]\u003c/p>\n",
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"excerpt": "There are many reasons couples choose to marry as quickly — and cheaply — as possible. From where to get your paperwork to the basic ceremony costs, here’s what to know.",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>When I told KQED coworkers I was working on a guide to getting married quickly, my fundraising colleague Lilly Payne joked that she and her wife got married “for love and health insurance.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>To be clear, the plan was always to \u003cem>get \u003c/em>married. “She’s the love of my life. She’s my favorite person,” Payne said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But she explained she had to accelerate her wedding plans in 2023 to be able to keep her then-fiancée insured before a big move the very same week. This rapid change in circumstance delayed the couple’s plan for a larger ceremony in favor of backyard vows conducted by an ordained neighbor, and witnessed by their friends and their dog, Oliver.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We didn’t have rings yet, but we had matching baseball caps,” Payne laughed.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And while this quick approach was admittedly “not what we were expecting at all,” said Payne, the tradeoff of cementing the couple’s legal partnership for their joint health and happiness was, for them, worth it.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>When a speedy wedding feels right\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Payne was by no means alone in choosing to formalize a partnership earlier than originally planned for practical reasons. In the United States, where access to good healthcare is often tied to employment or marriage, \u003ca href=\"https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/blog/living-single/202103/its-not-just-love-some-stay-married-the-health-insurance\">health insurance can be a large motivator\u003c/a> — as can financial pressures in general.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>People may choose elopements, that is, quicker or smaller ceremonies, for a variety of reasons, Sunnyvale \u003ca href=\"https://deniselillie.com/\">wedding planner\u003c/a> Denise Lillie said. She started seeing an increase in inquiries for these types of events during the height of the pandemic, when she observed many people wanting to make the commitment quickly — and celebrate later.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067145\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1999px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12067145 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251028-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-01_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251028-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-01_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251028-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-01_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251028-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-01_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Denise Lillie at San Francicsco City Hall on Oct. 28, 2025. \u003ccite>(Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Lillie said planners like her have also received requests from LGBTQ+ couples concerned about the future of marriage equality.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Even though the \u003ca href=\"https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/supreme-court/supreme-court-rejects-long-shot-effort-overturn-sex-marriage-ruling-rcna241113\">Supreme Court rejected the latest request\u003c/a> to overturn the U.S.’s landmark same-sex marriage ruling in early November, some couples have \u003ca href=\"https://time.com/7297484/obergefell-anniversary-trump-gay-marriage/\">expressed anxiety about the future of equal marriage\u003c/a> under President Donald Trump’s\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12023784/after-trumps-order-on-two-genders-trans-rights-groups-taking-action\"> second administration\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The aesthetics of a small, intimate wedding ceremony — sometimes followed up by a bigger party later down the line — has also gained in popularity among Gen-Z, Lillie said.\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>And then, there are the undoubted financial pressures of the \u003ca href=\"https://www.wbur.org/cognoscenti/2024/05/22/wedding-planning-dress-cost-marriage-abbigail-shirk\">big traditional wedding\u003c/a>: According to \u003ca href=\"https://www.theknot.com/content/average-wedding-cost\">a 2025 survey of around 17,000 couples by wedding website \u003cem>The Knot\u003c/em>\u003c/a>\u003cem>, \u003c/em>the average cost of a wedding in the United States is $33,000. In San Francisco, it’s $51,500.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In the midst of the holidays, also known as “engagement season” to wedding planners like Lillie, if you’re someone seeking to marry a partner as quickly and affordably as possible, you may be wondering: What are the logistics of getting married? What kind of paperwork do you actually need, and what are the timeframes — and costs?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Keep reading for the breakdown — and bear in mind that since the following doesn’t constitute legal advice, it’s always a good idea to speak to a lawyer about marriage licenses, name change options, finances and more when it comes to your own circumstances.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And if you’re looking for specific ways to make a small, simple ceremony feel special, check out our \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12067194/san-francisco-city-hall-wedding-ceremony-how-to-plan-small-simple-marriage\">advice from wedding experts\u003c/a> for making the most of your intimate ceremony, with particular tips for getting married at San Francisco City Hall.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>The paperwork basics of getting married\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>To be formally married in California, you’ll need to obtain two documents:\u003c/p>\n\u003col>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>A marriage license\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ol>\n\u003cp>This document authorizes your marriage to take place in California.\u003c/p>\n\u003col start=\"2\">\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>A marriage certificate\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ol>\n\u003cp>This document then acts as the proof of your marriage “through the county and state’s eyes,” said Alexis Levy, a San Francisco-based lawyer who is licensed to marry people in California.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Getting your marriage license\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>How do I get a marriage license in California?\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>A marriage license is essentially a permit to get married, although you won’t be legally married \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/get-marriage-license\">until you have a ceremony.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>To obtain a license, both partners should already be unmarried and over 18. (\u003ca href=\"https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sdcourt/juvenile3/juvenilemarriagelicenses3#:~:text=California%20law%20requires%20a%20person,the%20discretion%20of%20the%20court.\">People under 18\u003c/a>, \u003ca href=\"https://smcacre.gov/county-clerk-recorder/applicant-cannot-physically-appear-person\">incarcerated\u003c/a>, \u003ca href=\"https://smcacre.gov/county-clerk-recorder/applicant-cannot-physically-appear-person\">hospitalized\u003c/a> or \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/information--special-case-weddings\">in active military duty\u003c/a> have separate procedures for getting married.)\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In California, the process for obtaining a marriage license varies by county, and you’ll often be asked to complete an application online before picking up the license.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12058872\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1999px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12058872\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/10/230808-SanFranciscoCityHall-23-BL_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/10/230808-SanFranciscoCityHall-23-BL_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/10/230808-SanFranciscoCityHall-23-BL_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/10/230808-SanFranciscoCityHall-23-BL_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">City Hall is reflected in the Veterans Building in San Francisco on Aug. 8, 2023. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>For example, in \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/get-marriage-license\">San Francisco\u003c/a>, \u003ca href=\"https://smcacre.gov/county-clerk-recorder/applying-marriage-license\">San Mateo\u003c/a> and \u003ca href=\"https://www.napacounty.gov/1327/Marriage-License-Ceremony\">Napa County\u003c/a>, you need to book an appointment to pick up your license. In \u003ca href=\"https://www.acgov.org/auditor/clerk/bdm/marrlic.htm\">Alameda County\u003c/a>, the process is done through \u003ca href=\"https://auditor.alamedacountyca.gov/clerk-recorder-marriage-services-virtual/\">a video conference call\u003c/a>. In \u003ca href=\"https://clerkrecorder.santaclaracounty.gov/marriage-birth-and-death/apply-marriage-license\">Santa Clara\u003c/a>, \u003ca href=\"https://www.contracostavote.gov/countyclerk/ceremony-information/\">Contra Costa\u003c/a>, \u003ca href=\"https://www.arcc.marincounty.gov/services/marriage-birth-and-death/applying-marriage-license\">Marin\u003c/a>, \u003ca href=\"https://sonomacounty.gov/administrative-support-and-fiscal-services/clerk-recorder-assessor/clerk-recorder/clerk-services/marriage-license\">Sonoma\u003c/a>, and \u003ca href=\"https://www.solanocounty.gov/government/treasurer-tax-collector-county-clerk/county-clerk/marriage-license\">Solano\u003c/a>, marriage licenses are issued on a walk-in basis only.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>When going to the county clerk’s office to get your license, you usually will need to bring a valid government-issued ID. Both parties need to be present.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Do I need to get a marriage license in the county I live in? Or the county I intend to get married in?\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/Types-of-Marriage-Licenses-.aspx\">You can actually get a marriage license from any California county\u003c/a>, as long as your marriage ceremony takes place in California. You don’t have to live in that county or get married in that county.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This may offer you some convenience and flexibility if, for example, appointments for marriage licenses are scarce in the county you live in.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Are there different kinds of marriage licenses?\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>There are two different types of licenses that a couple can obtain, which impact costs.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Most couples choose what’s called a “\u003ca href=\"https://clerkrecorder.santaclaracounty.gov/marriage-birth-and-death/apply-marriage-license\"> public marriage license\u003c/a>,” which allows the marriage to be \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/get-marriage-license\">a public record\u003c/a> and requires a witness at the ceremony. These licenses cost around \u003ca href=\"https://clerkrecorder.santaclaracounty.gov/marriage-birth-and-death/apply-marriage-license\">$80\u003c/a> to \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/information--fees-county-clerk-services\">$127\u003c/a>, depending on the county. Most couples \u003ca href=\"https://clerkrecorder.santaclaracounty.gov/marriage-birth-and-death/apply-marriage-license\">opt for this license\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067155\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12067155\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/WeddingRings_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1125\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/WeddingRings_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/WeddingRings_qed-160x90.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/WeddingRings_qed-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/WeddingRings_qed-1200x675.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A pair of wedding rings on June 27, 2013. \u003ccite>(Christoph Edel/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>A “confidential marriage license” means that the marriage record is available \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/get-marriage-license\">only to the couple\u003c/a> or by \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/Types-of-Marriage-Licenses-.aspx\">court order from the same county\u003c/a>. These ceremonies require no witnesses, but the couple must also already \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/get-marriage-license\">live together\u003c/a> to be eligible for a confidential marriage license. These licenses typically cost a little more than public marriage licenses: For example, in \u003ca href=\"https://clerkrecorder.santaclaracounty.gov/marriage-birth-and-death/apply-marriage-license\">Santa Clara County\u003c/a>, the standard marriage license is $80, and the confidential marriage license is $83.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>How quickly can I get a marriage license? \u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It depends on how busy the office is, but an appointment for a license can take \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/step-by-step--get-married-san-francisco\">as little as \u003c/a>\u003ca href=\"https://www.solanocounty.gov/government/treasurer-tax-collector-county-clerk/county-clerk/marriage-license\">half an hour\u003c/a>. A \u003ca href=\"https://media.api.sf.gov/documents/2018_Public_Marriage_License_Application_09.13.18_nPUtUdp.pdf\">marriage license application\u003c/a> itself is around a page and a half.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The real key about the marriage license is to keep it safe,” San Francisco County Clerk Diane Rea said. “I know it looks like a piece of paper, but it becomes your record in the end.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>She said there could be instances where the license could be rejected if it is ripped or has coffee stains, and you may have to buy it all over again.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Having a wedding ceremony and obtaining your marriage certificate\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>How quickly do we have to \u003cem>get \u003c/em>married after getting the license? \u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Once you have the license, you must get married within \u003ca href=\"https://www.contracostavote.gov/countyclerk/ceremony-information/\">90 days of the date\u003c/a>, and if you don’t, you’ll need to obtain a new license.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you’re looking to really speed up the process, you could get married in the County Clerk-Recorder’s office on the same day, depending on the county. However, remember some counties will require some kind of \u003ca href=\"https://apps.smcacre.org/marsched/schedule.aspx\">booking\u003c/a> or appointment for \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/have-civil-marriage-or-domestic-partnership-ceremony-city-hall\">a civil ceremony\u003c/a>, so don’t necessarily expect to get a “walk-in wedding.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067535\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12067535 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-04-KQED-67.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1334\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-04-KQED-67.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-04-KQED-67-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-04-KQED-67-1536x1025.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Photographers pose their subjects for engagement and quinceañera photos on the grand staircase at San Francisco City Hall on Oct. 28, 2025.\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>But, truly, as long as you have the necessary witnesses and someone qualified to officiate, a ceremony can be \u003cem>anywhere\u003c/em>: a backyard, a bar, a park, a movie theater.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Remember to bring the license and government identification to the ceremony.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Do I need witnesses? \u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you have a public marriage license in California, \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/Marriage-Officiant-Frequently-Asked-Questions.aspx\">you need at least one witness and at most two witnesses\u003c/a>. They will sign your marriage certificate.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Who can marry couples in California?\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>According to \u003ca href=\"https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displayText.xhtml?lawCode=FAM&division=3.&title=&part=3.&chapter=1.&article=\">California law\u003c/a>, a wedding officiant can be someone, such as a judge, specific county staff, religious figures like priests or rabbis or current and former elected officials.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In \u003ca href=\"https://clerkrecorder.santaclaracounty.gov/services/become-one-day-deputy-commissioner\">some counties\u003c/a>, anyone can be \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/become-deputy-marriage-commissioner-day\">a marriage commissioner\u003c/a> for a day for a specific couple as long as they are over 18, fill out paperwork and are willing to take an oath to uphold the state and national constitutions. The price for this process ranges from county to county and could be around $80 to \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/information--fees-county-clerk-services\">$182\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Levy said the entities like \u003ca href=\"https://getordained.org/landing/get-ordained?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=17232247909&gbraid=0AAAAADmMFGbYO-pl25X5g29z3BCIfgj12&gclid=CjwKCAjwxfjGBhAUEiwAKWPwDmoFDHZl8Cocq5vHjZw-uAOcF6kEPs-sy4e0ECVBXL5o4LwAPWW1BRoCEDoQAvD_BwE\">the Universal Life Church\u003c/a> — “which is basically a completely non-denominational, non-doctrinal church” — also allow people to get ordained and officiate weddings. While anyone over 18 can get ordained, there are specific rules to know for officiating a wedding. The Universal Life Church has \u003ca href=\"https://getordained.org/perform-a-marriage/california\">a guide on how to get ordained in the state of California\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12029447\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12029447 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/250226-NAMEGENDERMARKERS-03-BL-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/250226-NAMEGENDERMARKERS-03-BL-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/250226-NAMEGENDERMARKERS-03-BL-KQED-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/250226-NAMEGENDERMARKERS-03-BL-KQED-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/250226-NAMEGENDERMARKERS-03-BL-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/250226-NAMEGENDERMARKERS-03-BL-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/250226-NAMEGENDERMARKERS-03-BL-KQED-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Attorney Alexis Levy poses for a portrait outside the Civic Center Courthouse in San Francisco on Feb. 26, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Does location matter?\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>As long as you get married in California, you do not need to get married in the county where you got your marriage license, said Levy, or the county where you live.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But if you want to get married in another \u003cem>state\u003c/em>, you should first get a marriage license in that state. For example, if you are having a Las Vegas wedding, you should obtain your marriage license in Nevada, since “their rules are very different than California’s,” cautioned Levy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>What paperwork do I need to do after the wedding? \u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Levy stressed that you must record the marriage certificate within 10 days of the wedding, with \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/step-by-step--get-married-san-francisco\">the county clerk where the certificate was issued\u003c/a>, which may well be a different county than the one in which you obtained your marriage license. Sometimes officiants will do the recording for you, which you should establish beforehand.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You should also request a copy of the marriage certificate from the county where it was issued.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>With all this in mind, what’s the lowest cost I could get married for?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>For the basics, you should factor in:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>The cost of your marriage license, plus\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>The cost of any civil ceremony in a city hall, plus\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>The cost of any county official who’s marrying you\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>The cost of obtaining a copy of your marriage certificate\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>For example, in \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/information--fees-county-clerk-services\">San Francisco County\u003c/a>, a public marriage license is $127, a civil marriage ceremony in the city hall is $111 and an additional copy of a marriage certificate is $17.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Another example, in \u003ca href=\"https://smcacre.gov/county-clerk-recorder/marriage-fees\">San Mateo County\u003c/a>, a public marriage license is $79, and a civil marriage ceremony is $65. A deputized marriage commissioner is $60. A duplicate of the marriage certificate is $5.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067531\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1999px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12067531 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-05-KQED_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-05-KQED_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-05-KQED_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-05-KQED_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Echo Xi (right) and Colin Kou pose for engagement photos at San Francisco City Hall on Oct. 28, 2025. \u003ccite>(Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>“There [are] a lot of other costs that people associate with weddings. With rings and with outfits and venues and all that kind of stuff,” Levy said. “None of those are technically legally required to get married. They’re just common pieces of a wedding.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And if they wish, couples can find many ways of keeping costs down with personal touches. KQED’s own Adhiti Bandlamudi echoed this advice for couples to work out what’s truly important to them for their own big day. When it came to her own civil ceremony in 2021, Bandlamudi wore a white dress purchased from Anthropologie. Afterwards, she and her loved ones gathered together in the couple’s Richmond apartment, with takeout Indian pizza for catering. She even made her own gingerbread wedding cake.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>For some couples, the emotional stress of weddings, the costs, the planning, the constant wondering of what other people and families are going to think can burden them. But, Bandlamudi said, “it’s \u003cem>your wedding\u003c/em>.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>She recommended that couples focus on what that day means to them: “Is it the vibes? Is it the music? Is that the food?”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Once you and your partner have discussed the elements that truly matter to you, “focus on that, make it really special,” advised Bandlamudi.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>And finally: The serious questions to think about when planning your speedy wedding\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Will you and your new spouse be sharing health benefits?\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Getting married is considered a “qualifying event,” Levy said, when an insurance policy can be changed. And technically, health benefits held through an employer — or through Covered California, the state’s own marketplace through the Affordable Care Act — “can be applied to the other spouse immediately upon marriage,” they said.\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>Generally, Levy said, employer-sponsored healthcare and Covered California will be granted retroactively to the date of the marriage, and for \u003ca href=\"https://www.coveredca.com/marketing-blog/just-married-health-insurance-for-your-spouse-and-you/\">Covered California\u003c/a>, you can enroll up to 60 days after the marriage. But “practically speaking, it may not actually go into effect \u003cem>immediately \u003c/em>because there’s always some lag time for the paperwork to process,” they added.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Bear in mind that some large employers are obligated to cover dependents with health care but \u003ca href=\"https://www.coveredca.com/marketing-blog/just-married-health-insurance-for-your-spouse-and-you/\">not a spouse\u003c/a>, and that you should always check these details before your marriage.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you are on \u003ca href=\"https://www.dhcs.ca.gov/Medi-Cal/Pages/update-information.aspx\">Medi-Cal\u003c/a>, you will need to report your marriage on BenefitsCal or to your county 10 days after the event.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Does one or both of you want to change your name? \u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Rea said it is important for couples to consider if one or both spouses want to change their name, and to have made the decision before their marriage license appointment.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“If they do not do it right then and there, then they need to go to the courts to change it later,” Rea explained.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Keep in mind, you can’t \u003ca href=\"https://www.contracostavote.gov/countyclerk/ceremony-information/change-name-on-marriage-license/\">change your \u003cem>first \u003c/em>name\u003c/a> through this method, but you can change \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/CDPH%20Document%20Library/ADA_The%20Name%20Equality%20Act%20of%202007%20(01-18).pdf\">your last name\u003c/a> in the following ways:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>The current last name of the other spouse\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>The last name of either spouse given at birth\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>A combination of last names\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>You can change \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/CDPH%20Document%20Library/ADA_The%20Name%20Equality%20Act%20of%202007%20(01-18).pdf\">your middle name\u003c/a> in the following ways:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>The current last name of either spouse\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>The last name of either spouse given at birth\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>A combination of the current middle name and the current last name of the person or spouse\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>A combination of the current middle name and the birth last name of the person or spouse\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>Neither party can completely drop an existing middle name.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>After the marriage ceremony, and after the marriage certificate is recorded with the county, you will then need to update your Social Security record and \u003ca href=\"https://selfhelp.courts.ca.gov/name-change/marriage\">your state and federal IDs\u003c/a>. To aid you, KQED has a thorough \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12029428/how-californians-can-start-changing-names-and-gender-markers-on-government-ids\">guide on name changes (and gender marker updates)\u003c/a> in California.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cp>Federal officials detained more than 40 activists outside San Francisco’s \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12063228/bay-area-religious-leaders-hold-interfaith-vigil-outside-of-ice-office-in-san-francisco\">federal immigration office\u003c/a> Tuesday morning after they blocked access to the building for hours, calling for due process and respect for immigrants amid escalating enforcement activity.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The San Francisco Fire Department began breaking chains connecting some of the activists to the building’s doors just before 10 a.m. People were handcuffed and taken inside the building after Department of Homeland Security officials gave repeated warnings to disperse.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>While local law enforcement is prohibited from assisting federal immigration officers with any investigation, detention or arrest under San Francisco’s sanctuary city policy, SFFD said firefighters acted within department protocol and “in order to ensure the health and safety of the individuals.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Department of Homeland Security spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin said in a statement that 43 people were arrested by ICE and Federal Protective Service officers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Rioters chained themselves to the building’s front gate and doors, impeding law enforcement operations,” she said via email.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067433\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12067433 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251216-ICEPROTEST-44-BL-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251216-ICEPROTEST-44-BL-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251216-ICEPROTEST-44-BL-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251216-ICEPROTEST-44-BL-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Faith leaders and immigrant advocates sing as they block the entrance to the ICE San Francisco Field Office on Dec. 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Though McLaughlin described the people as “rioters,” KQED witnessed protesters remaining peaceful throughout, aside from some booing and yelling while law enforcement officials made arrests.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Protesters told KQED that they were cited for obstructing the entrance to the building and released as of 2 p.m. By then, the protesters blocking both entrances had been cleared for hours.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Most of the at least 40 people who had been waiting in line outside the building for scheduled check-ins throughout the morning also began to leave after officials said their appointments had been canceled.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Activists told KQED that they were informed that the office would remain closed for the day.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The detentions come after dozens of faith leaders and members of a Bay Area interfaith group stationed themselves in front of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency’s entrances on Sansome Street and Washington Street. Others, singing hymns and holding large banners, blocked intersections on Sansome and vehicle access to the building from Battery Street.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067394\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12067394\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251216-ICEPROTEST-04-BL-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251216-ICEPROTEST-04-BL-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251216-ICEPROTEST-04-BL-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251216-ICEPROTEST-04-BL-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Faith leaders and immigrant advocates block the entrance to the ICE San Francisco field office on Dec. 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>“We are calling for an end to the kidnappings; we are calling for dignity and respect for all people; we are calling for due process,” said Limei Chen, a member of the Interfaith Movement for Human Integrity who was chained to the door on Sansome. “We are just calling for love and dignity for immigrants and all people.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Since the summer, Interfaith leaders from across the Bay Area have been holding \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12059840/trump-says-anti-ice-protests-are-a-campaign-of-violence-reality-looks-far-different\">multiple weekly vigils\u003c/a> outside the office and an immigration court facility a half-mile away, but they have avoided interfering with ICE activity.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But the Rev. Deborah Lee, Interfaith Movement for Human Integrity co-director, said escalating violence has inspired them to take further action.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“At some point, we as people of faith are being called to not just love our neighbor, but we have to disrupt injustice that’s happening day after day after day,” she told KQED. “We cannot sit idly by and see people being marched into the slaughter of immigration detention across our country.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Lee said over the last six months, about 120 people have been detained while reporting to mandatory asylum case check-in appointments and hearings in the city — a \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12041473/unprecedented-ice-officers-operating-inside-bay-area-immigration-courts-lawyers-say\">tactic that was unprecedented\u003c/a> prior to the second Trump administration.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067429\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12067429 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251216-ICEPROTEST-17-BL-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251216-ICEPROTEST-17-BL-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251216-ICEPROTEST-17-BL-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251216-ICEPROTEST-17-BL-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Faith leaders and immigrant advocates sing as they block the entrance to the ICE San Francisco Field Office on Dec. 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Among them is Alexandra De Martini’s husband, who was detained last month during what she thought was a routine green card interview. Currently, he’s being held in \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12062774/conditions-at-massive-new-california-immigration-facility-are-alarming-report-finds\">a detention center in California City\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“People need to be informed that this is happening, that people are being taken at routine green card interviews in front of their children and their spouses,” she said at the protest on Tuesday.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>According to De Martini, her petition to sponsor her husband had already been accepted, and agents told her the appointment was wrapping up when she stepped out of the room to change their child’s diaper.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I said, ‘I’ll just wait, it’s OK,’ … and the agent said, ‘No, I’ll walk you to the bathroom. We’ll come get you when it’s over. We’re almost done here,’” she said. “When I came out, I was informed that my husband had been detained.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>De Martini, who has impaired sight, said she’s had to walk to pediatrician appointments and faced difficulties caring for their 6-month-old without her husband.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>She said lawyers advised her to request a same-day bond hearing to have him released from detention, but immigration officials have told her it isn’t possible.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067431\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12067431 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251216-ICEPROTEST-33-BL-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251216-ICEPROTEST-33-BL-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251216-ICEPROTEST-33-BL-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251216-ICEPROTEST-33-BL-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Department of Homeland Security officers detain demonstrators outside of the ICE San Francisco Field Office on Dec. 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>“They said under the current administration, we don’t do that,” De Martini said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The Department of Justice has also fired \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12065240/after-trump-fires-5-more-sf-immigration-judges-legal-scholars-fear-a-more-partisan-system\">12 of 21 immigration court judges\u003c/a> who preside over the Bay Area’s court since the beginning of 2025, raising alarms that judges who might not be willing to rule in line with the administration’s immigration agenda could face consequences.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Advocates said prior to the detentions Tuesday morning that they had planned to remain despite knowing there was the risk of arrest.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The harm that’s being committed in these buildings when people are being taken from their families and then put into concentration camps far outweighs any concerns to any harm that may come from standing here today in solidarity with people who are just simply trying to live their lives in this country in freedom and dignity,” said Rabbi Cat Zavis, who was among those detained. “Our faith traditions and our spiritual traditions call us to disrupt injustice and stand with them.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>Federal officials detained more than 40 activists outside San Francisco’s \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12063228/bay-area-religious-leaders-hold-interfaith-vigil-outside-of-ice-office-in-san-francisco\">federal immigration office\u003c/a> Tuesday morning after they blocked access to the building for hours, calling for due process and respect for immigrants amid escalating enforcement activity.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The San Francisco Fire Department began breaking chains connecting some of the activists to the building’s doors just before 10 a.m. People were handcuffed and taken inside the building after Department of Homeland Security officials gave repeated warnings to disperse.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>While local law enforcement is prohibited from assisting federal immigration officers with any investigation, detention or arrest under San Francisco’s sanctuary city policy, SFFD said firefighters acted within department protocol and “in order to ensure the health and safety of the individuals.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Department of Homeland Security spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin said in a statement that 43 people were arrested by ICE and Federal Protective Service officers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Rioters chained themselves to the building’s front gate and doors, impeding law enforcement operations,” she said via email.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067433\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12067433 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251216-ICEPROTEST-44-BL-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251216-ICEPROTEST-44-BL-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251216-ICEPROTEST-44-BL-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251216-ICEPROTEST-44-BL-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Faith leaders and immigrant advocates sing as they block the entrance to the ICE San Francisco Field Office on Dec. 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Though McLaughlin described the people as “rioters,” KQED witnessed protesters remaining peaceful throughout, aside from some booing and yelling while law enforcement officials made arrests.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Protesters told KQED that they were cited for obstructing the entrance to the building and released as of 2 p.m. By then, the protesters blocking both entrances had been cleared for hours.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Most of the at least 40 people who had been waiting in line outside the building for scheduled check-ins throughout the morning also began to leave after officials said their appointments had been canceled.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Activists told KQED that they were informed that the office would remain closed for the day.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The detentions come after dozens of faith leaders and members of a Bay Area interfaith group stationed themselves in front of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency’s entrances on Sansome Street and Washington Street. Others, singing hymns and holding large banners, blocked intersections on Sansome and vehicle access to the building from Battery Street.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067394\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12067394\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251216-ICEPROTEST-04-BL-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251216-ICEPROTEST-04-BL-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251216-ICEPROTEST-04-BL-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251216-ICEPROTEST-04-BL-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Faith leaders and immigrant advocates block the entrance to the ICE San Francisco field office on Dec. 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>“We are calling for an end to the kidnappings; we are calling for dignity and respect for all people; we are calling for due process,” said Limei Chen, a member of the Interfaith Movement for Human Integrity who was chained to the door on Sansome. “We are just calling for love and dignity for immigrants and all people.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Since the summer, Interfaith leaders from across the Bay Area have been holding \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12059840/trump-says-anti-ice-protests-are-a-campaign-of-violence-reality-looks-far-different\">multiple weekly vigils\u003c/a> outside the office and an immigration court facility a half-mile away, but they have avoided interfering with ICE activity.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But the Rev. Deborah Lee, Interfaith Movement for Human Integrity co-director, said escalating violence has inspired them to take further action.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“At some point, we as people of faith are being called to not just love our neighbor, but we have to disrupt injustice that’s happening day after day after day,” she told KQED. “We cannot sit idly by and see people being marched into the slaughter of immigration detention across our country.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Lee said over the last six months, about 120 people have been detained while reporting to mandatory asylum case check-in appointments and hearings in the city — a \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12041473/unprecedented-ice-officers-operating-inside-bay-area-immigration-courts-lawyers-say\">tactic that was unprecedented\u003c/a> prior to the second Trump administration.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067429\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12067429 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251216-ICEPROTEST-17-BL-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251216-ICEPROTEST-17-BL-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251216-ICEPROTEST-17-BL-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251216-ICEPROTEST-17-BL-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Faith leaders and immigrant advocates sing as they block the entrance to the ICE San Francisco Field Office on Dec. 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Among them is Alexandra De Martini’s husband, who was detained last month during what she thought was a routine green card interview. Currently, he’s being held in \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12062774/conditions-at-massive-new-california-immigration-facility-are-alarming-report-finds\">a detention center in California City\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“People need to be informed that this is happening, that people are being taken at routine green card interviews in front of their children and their spouses,” she said at the protest on Tuesday.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>According to De Martini, her petition to sponsor her husband had already been accepted, and agents told her the appointment was wrapping up when she stepped out of the room to change their child’s diaper.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I said, ‘I’ll just wait, it’s OK,’ … and the agent said, ‘No, I’ll walk you to the bathroom. We’ll come get you when it’s over. We’re almost done here,’” she said. “When I came out, I was informed that my husband had been detained.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>De Martini, who has impaired sight, said she’s had to walk to pediatrician appointments and faced difficulties caring for their 6-month-old without her husband.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>She said lawyers advised her to request a same-day bond hearing to have him released from detention, but immigration officials have told her it isn’t possible.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067431\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12067431 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251216-ICEPROTEST-33-BL-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251216-ICEPROTEST-33-BL-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251216-ICEPROTEST-33-BL-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251216-ICEPROTEST-33-BL-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Department of Homeland Security officers detain demonstrators outside of the ICE San Francisco Field Office on Dec. 16, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>“They said under the current administration, we don’t do that,” De Martini said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The Department of Justice has also fired \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12065240/after-trump-fires-5-more-sf-immigration-judges-legal-scholars-fear-a-more-partisan-system\">12 of 21 immigration court judges\u003c/a> who preside over the Bay Area’s court since the beginning of 2025, raising alarms that judges who might not be willing to rule in line with the administration’s immigration agenda could face consequences.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Advocates said prior to the detentions Tuesday morning that they had planned to remain despite knowing there was the risk of arrest.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The harm that’s being committed in these buildings when people are being taken from their families and then put into concentration camps far outweighs any concerns to any harm that may come from standing here today in solidarity with people who are just simply trying to live their lives in this country in freedom and dignity,” said Rabbi Cat Zavis, who was among those detained. “Our faith traditions and our spiritual traditions call us to disrupt injustice and stand with them.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003c/div>\u003c/p>",
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"slug": "ice-deportations-create-fear-and-isolation-in-californias-sikh-community",
"title": "ICE Deportations Create Fear and Isolation in California’s Sikh Community",
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"content": "\u003cp>\u003cem>Below are excerpts from their conversation, edited for brevity and clarity. For the full interview, listen to the audio linked at the top of this story.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Atop the rolling hills of \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/tag/san-jose\">East San José\u003c/a> sits the largest \u003ca href=\"https://www.sanjose.org/listings/sikh-gurdwara-sahib\">Sikh temple\u003c/a> in the United States, its white domes visible for miles.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Inside, on an October Sunday, music drifted through the prayer hall and congregants made their way to\u003cem> langar\u003c/em>, the community kitchen where free meals are served each day. For decades, this gurdwara has been both a spiritual anchor and a lifeline for tens of thousands of worshippers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But over the past year, a quiet, growing fear has settled into the space.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>South Asians are rarely included in conversations about undocumented communities, yet 35,000 people from India were \u003ca href=\"https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/stats/nationwide-encounters\">apprehended\u003c/a> at the U.S. border this year — many of them Punjabi Sikhs. Some arrive seeking political refuge; others come on temporary visas and take low-wage jobs that leave them especially exposed when immigration policy shifts.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Following a January \u003ca href=\"https://www.dhs.gov/news/2025/01/21/statement-dhs-spokesperson-directives-expanding-law-enforcement-and-ending-abuse\">memo\u003c/a> from the Department of Homeland Security, expanding where officers can operate, federal immigration agents are more routinely showing up at formerly protected “sensitive locations” — hospitals, clinics, schools and places of worship. The intensification of \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12053380/as-ice-arrests-surge-a-journalist-in-southern-california-covers-raids-in-her-own-backyard\">ICE enforcement across California\u003c/a> has left many Sikh immigrants wondering whether even their gurdwaras are still safe.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12066899\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003ca href=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251211_ICEGURUDWARA_DECEMBER_GH-3-KQED.jpg\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12066899\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251211_ICEGURUDWARA_DECEMBER_GH-3-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251211_ICEGURUDWARA_DECEMBER_GH-3-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251211_ICEGURUDWARA_DECEMBER_GH-3-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251211_ICEGURUDWARA_DECEMBER_GH-3-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003c/a>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Tanay Gokhale, a journalist covering how immigration enforcement affects Punjabi Sikh residents across California, stands in front of Gurdwara Sahib Hayward, a Sikh temple established in 1993, in Hayward on Dec. 11, 2025. \u003ccite>(Gustavo Hernandez/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Gurdwaras act as a touchstone for medical care, social services and community support for Sikh Punjabi immigrants and their families. With Punjabi being the \u003ca href=\"https://mesa.ucdavis.edu/punjabi#:~:text=Why%20Learn%20Punjabi?,that%20started%20in%20the%201890s.\">third\u003c/a> most-spoken language in several California counties, many find solace in the in-language information the space offers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Journalist Tanay Gokhale spent the past year with this community, reporting for \u003ca href=\"https://indiacurrents.com/whats-at-stake-in-the-battle-to-keep-ice-out-of-gurdwaras/\">India Currents\u003c/a>, a San José–based nonprofit magazine serving South Asian immigrants.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>He joined \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/program/the-california-report-magazine\">\u003cem>The California Report Magazine\u003c/em>\u003c/a> host Sasha Khokha to explain how rising ICE activity is reshaping daily life for Sikh immigrants in California.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>Below are excerpts from their conversation, edited for brevity and clarity. For the full interview, listen to the audio linked at the top of this story.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Only why he turned his attention to Sikh Punjabi immigrants\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>When the administration’s immigration crackdown started, I was thinking of how this might impact the Indian diaspora. And generally, when you think of the Indian diaspora, you think of an affluent group of well-educated people who are accomplished.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But few people know that Indians are actually the fifth-largest \u003ca href=\"https://www.pewresearch.org/race-and-ethnicity/2025/08/21/u-s-unauthorized-immigrant-population-reached-a-record-14-million-in-2023/#:~:text=After%20Mexico%2C%20the%20countries%20with%20the%20largest,(850%2C000)%20*%20Honduras%20(775%2C000)%20*%20India%20(680%2C000)\">undocumented\u003c/a> group in the country. And this community is largely underreported and a lot of these people are Sikhs coming from [the state of] Punjab to settle in California. They’re working \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11849926/why-farmers-drove-a-tractor-to-protest-at-the-indian-consulate-in-san-francisco\">blue-collar jobs like agricultural labor\u003c/a> or in the trucking industry. I also thought about how the immigration crackdown is also impacting immigrants’ health outcomes because people are more afraid to go out and seek health care.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>On what changed after President Donald Trump took office in January of 2025\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The DHS issued the memo on Jan. 21, right after the Trump administration took charge. It basically allowed ICE officers to conduct operations inside places of worship, which in the past was a big no-no unless it was absolutely necessary.[aside postID=news_12053380 hero='https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/08/75ACE4D9-068E-4167-9BD3-CFF3A0BE597B-2000x1335.jpg']Right after the memo came out, there were also some false rumors about ICE raids in gurdwaras across the country, and that further fueled the paranoia and fear.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Suddenly, Sikhs around the country were thinking, “Hold on, if I go to the gurdwara every Sunday, but this time when I step out, is there a chance that I’m gonna get picked up by ICE?” And that led to a lot of fear among the community and gurdwaras were reporting a drop in attendance.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>I spoke to Narenda Singh Thandi, a former Amtrak bus driver who’s now serving as the president of \u003ca href=\"https://indiacurrents.com/whats-at-stake-in-the-battle-to-keep-ice-out-of-gurdwaras/\">the West Sacramento gurdwara\u003c/a>. And he was talking about how he’s concerned that immigration activity would go against the decorum that gurdwaras need to maintain.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We don’t want ICE in the temple,” Thandi said. “We don’t want people to go with the shoes on, with guns on, which is against our system.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>When Sikhs go to the gurdwara, their heads are supposed to be covered at all times, and there’s absolutely no weapons allowed inside. You’re also supposed to take your shoes off before you enter the prayer hall. If an ICE operation or a homeland security operation is happening, chances are that officers aren’t necessarily gonna follow that.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>On why gurdwaras are essential support hubs — and the cost of staying away\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Gurdwaras are a house of worship, but they’re also kind of like resource hubs for new immigrants, especially those who do not speak English and only speak Punjabi. These are spaces where you pray, but you also seek out fellowship: you meet a familiar-looking face from your city back home in India.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The gurdwara offers all of these wonderful services like you mentioned. So, when you’re seeing a drop in attendance in gurdwaras because of fear of immigration activity, it also means that congregants are not accessing these services, and that can lead to some pretty serious outcomes for their health.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12066902\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003ca href=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251211_ICEGURUDWARA_DECEMBER_GH-8-KQED.jpg\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12066902\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251211_ICEGURUDWARA_DECEMBER_GH-8-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251211_ICEGURUDWARA_DECEMBER_GH-8-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251211_ICEGURUDWARA_DECEMBER_GH-8-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251211_ICEGURUDWARA_DECEMBER_GH-8-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003c/a>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Volunteers prepare food in the langar kitchen at Gurdwara Sahib Hayward in Hayward on Dec. 11, 2025. The Sikh tradition of langar emphasizes community service and equality through shared meals. \u003ccite>(Gustavo Hernandez/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>I spoke to Dr. Harpreet Singh Pannu. He’s a Kaiser doctor, but on Sundays, he runs a \u003ca href=\"https://indiacurrents.com/language-barriers-cripple-sikh-immigrants-access-to-healthcare/\">free medical clinic\u003c/a> at the San José gurdwara. By training, he’s an internal medicine specialist, but at this gurdwara, he is a physician, he’s a mental health counselor, he’s a health advocate, he’s a health educator — all rolled into one.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Especially among older congregants, someone who speaks in Punjabi offers a level of comfort and familiarity that they often cannot find in a hospital, which can seem foreign and sterile.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We don’t make a difference in terms of whether they are documented or undocumented,” Pannu said. “But there is reluctance because they are worried if they come here, they could end up in trouble.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>By ‘ending up in trouble,’ he’s talking about getting picked up by ICE in a raid, and this is especially problematic for some of the older congregants who have this as their only point of contact with any sort of health practitioner.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>On one man’s quiet support for Sikh detainees\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>In 2016, driven purely by his own curiosity, Simran Singh made the 20-minute trip [from his home] to the \u003ca href=\"https://indiacurrents.com/for-sikhs-in-ice-detention-centers-faith-represents-hope/\">Mesa Verde detention center\u003c/a>. He didn’t expect there to be any [South Asian detainees], but was actually surprised to see that there were three.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Detention centers can be really isolating places for detainees.[aside postID=news_12066314 hero='https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251203-SJPRIESTIMMIGRATION00043_TV-KQED.jpg']You’ve just had a months-long journey from India to the U.S. border, and suddenly you find yourself in this place where you have very little personal space and there’s also nobody to talk to because you’re often speaking different languages.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>A phone call — an international phone call back home — costs 85 cents a minute. You can work an entire day, and you can barely scrape together enough money to speak for one minute to your family.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Singh completed a four-hour volunteer course that the detention center offers. And once he completed that, he had access to the detainees. He found that none of the detainees had access to gutke — a holy prayer book that Sikhs usually have on their person — and it is a really important part of prayer and Sikhism and of their faith.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Most of them weren’t fluent in English,” Singh said, “It was just heartwarming to see them have something that connects them to the outside world so they’re not just isolated in this place.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>He visited every week with some langar food, gutke, turban cloths and Punjabi newspapers to keep them updated on what was happening back home in India.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>On the battle to protect articles of faith behind bars\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Detainees did not have access to articles of faith — no gutke, no prayer beads, no turban cloths. There’s a lack of awareness and lack of resources on the ICE detention centers part.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067105\" class=\"wp-caption alignright\" style=\"max-width: 1200px\">\u003ca href=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/simran-middle.jpeg\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12067105\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/simran-middle.jpeg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/simran-middle.jpeg 1200w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/simran-middle-160x90.jpeg 160w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\">\u003c/a>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Simran Singh (middle) during a group tour of the Bakersfield Detention Center that he organized to raise awareness about Sikh detainees among the Sikh diaspora. \u003ccite>(Courtesy of Simran Singh.)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>For example, in detention centers, detainees cannot keep hardbound books on their person. But the gutke are almost always hardbound because they’re holy and they’re supposed to be kept protected at all times, and they shouldn’t have any damage.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>When Singh found out, he found an importer in India, a manufacturer who makes softbound gutke and he added a layer of zip-close bag protection as security. And then it was okay to distribute them among the detainees.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Another contentious article of faith is the turban. Sikh men are required to wear a turban to cover the head at all times. It’s very important to them. It’s a representation of their faith. And taking off one’s turban, especially in public, represents great dishonor among practicing Sikhs.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But in 2022, there were dozens of cases in which Sikh detainees were \u003ca href=\"https://arizonastatelawjournal.org/2022/10/03/a-call-for-accountability-u-s-border-patrol-officers-confiscate-and-discard-sikh-turbans/\">forced\u003c/a> to take off their turbans at the border by immigration officers. In some cases, the turbans were thrown into the trash right in front of them.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>On shared suffering and solidarity\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>In some ways, the detainees are all in the same boat with respect to some common struggles. They’re all away from home, they’re all anxious about their future, their families, their finances.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Often, there’s a language barrier that prevents them from connecting, except sometimes through faith. In that kind of a situation, faith becomes a really powerful thing to hang on to.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12066900\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003ca href=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251211_ICEGURUDWARA_DECEMBER_GH-7-KQED.jpg\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12066900\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251211_ICEGURUDWARA_DECEMBER_GH-7-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251211_ICEGURUDWARA_DECEMBER_GH-7-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251211_ICEGURUDWARA_DECEMBER_GH-7-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251211_ICEGURUDWARA_DECEMBER_GH-7-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003c/a>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Worshippers sit on the floor and eat langar, a free communal meal, inside Gurdwara Sahib Hayward in Hayward on Dec. 11, 2025. Sikh temples serve langar to all visitors, regardless of background or religion. \u003ccite>(Gustavo Hernandez/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Singh also found that prayer beads — malas —that he was bringing to Sikh detainees are actually used by multiple faiths. They’re used in Catholicism, Islam, Hinduism and other faiths as well. And that became a point of connection inside the detention center.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The South Asian detainees would also take back extra \u003cem>malas\u003c/em> to give out to people and so kind of build this relationship with someone from El Salvador or Mexico,” said Singh. “Neither of you are speaking English well, but now you have something to give to them, and that gesture goes a long way.”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>On why this community needs greater attention and support\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>When Singh visited the detention facility for the first time in 2016, he saw three South Asian detainees. Now he’s seeing 65, of which half are Sikhs.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>There’s still not enough advocacy and enough support for this population, even within the Indian diaspora. It is heartening to see people like Singh stepping in, doing everything that they can and filling in that gap, but I do think there needs to be more advocacy and support and just general awareness about this population.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad floatright]\u003c/p>\n",
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"excerpt": "The intensification of ICE enforcement has left many Sikh immigrants in cities like San José wondering whether even their gurdwaras, sacred places of worship, are safe.\r\n",
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"title": "ICE Deportations Create Fear and Isolation in California’s Sikh Community | KQED",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>\u003cem>Below are excerpts from their conversation, edited for brevity and clarity. For the full interview, listen to the audio linked at the top of this story.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Atop the rolling hills of \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/tag/san-jose\">East San José\u003c/a> sits the largest \u003ca href=\"https://www.sanjose.org/listings/sikh-gurdwara-sahib\">Sikh temple\u003c/a> in the United States, its white domes visible for miles.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Inside, on an October Sunday, music drifted through the prayer hall and congregants made their way to\u003cem> langar\u003c/em>, the community kitchen where free meals are served each day. For decades, this gurdwara has been both a spiritual anchor and a lifeline for tens of thousands of worshippers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But over the past year, a quiet, growing fear has settled into the space.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>South Asians are rarely included in conversations about undocumented communities, yet 35,000 people from India were \u003ca href=\"https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/stats/nationwide-encounters\">apprehended\u003c/a> at the U.S. border this year — many of them Punjabi Sikhs. Some arrive seeking political refuge; others come on temporary visas and take low-wage jobs that leave them especially exposed when immigration policy shifts.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Following a January \u003ca href=\"https://www.dhs.gov/news/2025/01/21/statement-dhs-spokesperson-directives-expanding-law-enforcement-and-ending-abuse\">memo\u003c/a> from the Department of Homeland Security, expanding where officers can operate, federal immigration agents are more routinely showing up at formerly protected “sensitive locations” — hospitals, clinics, schools and places of worship. The intensification of \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12053380/as-ice-arrests-surge-a-journalist-in-southern-california-covers-raids-in-her-own-backyard\">ICE enforcement across California\u003c/a> has left many Sikh immigrants wondering whether even their gurdwaras are still safe.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12066899\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003ca href=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251211_ICEGURUDWARA_DECEMBER_GH-3-KQED.jpg\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12066899\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251211_ICEGURUDWARA_DECEMBER_GH-3-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251211_ICEGURUDWARA_DECEMBER_GH-3-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251211_ICEGURUDWARA_DECEMBER_GH-3-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251211_ICEGURUDWARA_DECEMBER_GH-3-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003c/a>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Tanay Gokhale, a journalist covering how immigration enforcement affects Punjabi Sikh residents across California, stands in front of Gurdwara Sahib Hayward, a Sikh temple established in 1993, in Hayward on Dec. 11, 2025. \u003ccite>(Gustavo Hernandez/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Gurdwaras act as a touchstone for medical care, social services and community support for Sikh Punjabi immigrants and their families. With Punjabi being the \u003ca href=\"https://mesa.ucdavis.edu/punjabi#:~:text=Why%20Learn%20Punjabi?,that%20started%20in%20the%201890s.\">third\u003c/a> most-spoken language in several California counties, many find solace in the in-language information the space offers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Journalist Tanay Gokhale spent the past year with this community, reporting for \u003ca href=\"https://indiacurrents.com/whats-at-stake-in-the-battle-to-keep-ice-out-of-gurdwaras/\">India Currents\u003c/a>, a San José–based nonprofit magazine serving South Asian immigrants.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>He joined \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/program/the-california-report-magazine\">\u003cem>The California Report Magazine\u003c/em>\u003c/a> host Sasha Khokha to explain how rising ICE activity is reshaping daily life for Sikh immigrants in California.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>Below are excerpts from their conversation, edited for brevity and clarity. For the full interview, listen to the audio linked at the top of this story.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Only why he turned his attention to Sikh Punjabi immigrants\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>When the administration’s immigration crackdown started, I was thinking of how this might impact the Indian diaspora. And generally, when you think of the Indian diaspora, you think of an affluent group of well-educated people who are accomplished.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But few people know that Indians are actually the fifth-largest \u003ca href=\"https://www.pewresearch.org/race-and-ethnicity/2025/08/21/u-s-unauthorized-immigrant-population-reached-a-record-14-million-in-2023/#:~:text=After%20Mexico%2C%20the%20countries%20with%20the%20largest,(850%2C000)%20*%20Honduras%20(775%2C000)%20*%20India%20(680%2C000)\">undocumented\u003c/a> group in the country. And this community is largely underreported and a lot of these people are Sikhs coming from [the state of] Punjab to settle in California. They’re working \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11849926/why-farmers-drove-a-tractor-to-protest-at-the-indian-consulate-in-san-francisco\">blue-collar jobs like agricultural labor\u003c/a> or in the trucking industry. I also thought about how the immigration crackdown is also impacting immigrants’ health outcomes because people are more afraid to go out and seek health care.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>On what changed after President Donald Trump took office in January of 2025\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The DHS issued the memo on Jan. 21, right after the Trump administration took charge. It basically allowed ICE officers to conduct operations inside places of worship, which in the past was a big no-no unless it was absolutely necessary.\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>Right after the memo came out, there were also some false rumors about ICE raids in gurdwaras across the country, and that further fueled the paranoia and fear.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Suddenly, Sikhs around the country were thinking, “Hold on, if I go to the gurdwara every Sunday, but this time when I step out, is there a chance that I’m gonna get picked up by ICE?” And that led to a lot of fear among the community and gurdwaras were reporting a drop in attendance.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>I spoke to Narenda Singh Thandi, a former Amtrak bus driver who’s now serving as the president of \u003ca href=\"https://indiacurrents.com/whats-at-stake-in-the-battle-to-keep-ice-out-of-gurdwaras/\">the West Sacramento gurdwara\u003c/a>. And he was talking about how he’s concerned that immigration activity would go against the decorum that gurdwaras need to maintain.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We don’t want ICE in the temple,” Thandi said. “We don’t want people to go with the shoes on, with guns on, which is against our system.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>When Sikhs go to the gurdwara, their heads are supposed to be covered at all times, and there’s absolutely no weapons allowed inside. You’re also supposed to take your shoes off before you enter the prayer hall. If an ICE operation or a homeland security operation is happening, chances are that officers aren’t necessarily gonna follow that.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>On why gurdwaras are essential support hubs — and the cost of staying away\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Gurdwaras are a house of worship, but they’re also kind of like resource hubs for new immigrants, especially those who do not speak English and only speak Punjabi. These are spaces where you pray, but you also seek out fellowship: you meet a familiar-looking face from your city back home in India.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The gurdwara offers all of these wonderful services like you mentioned. So, when you’re seeing a drop in attendance in gurdwaras because of fear of immigration activity, it also means that congregants are not accessing these services, and that can lead to some pretty serious outcomes for their health.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12066902\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003ca href=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251211_ICEGURUDWARA_DECEMBER_GH-8-KQED.jpg\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12066902\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251211_ICEGURUDWARA_DECEMBER_GH-8-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251211_ICEGURUDWARA_DECEMBER_GH-8-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251211_ICEGURUDWARA_DECEMBER_GH-8-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251211_ICEGURUDWARA_DECEMBER_GH-8-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003c/a>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Volunteers prepare food in the langar kitchen at Gurdwara Sahib Hayward in Hayward on Dec. 11, 2025. The Sikh tradition of langar emphasizes community service and equality through shared meals. \u003ccite>(Gustavo Hernandez/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>I spoke to Dr. Harpreet Singh Pannu. He’s a Kaiser doctor, but on Sundays, he runs a \u003ca href=\"https://indiacurrents.com/language-barriers-cripple-sikh-immigrants-access-to-healthcare/\">free medical clinic\u003c/a> at the San José gurdwara. By training, he’s an internal medicine specialist, but at this gurdwara, he is a physician, he’s a mental health counselor, he’s a health advocate, he’s a health educator — all rolled into one.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Especially among older congregants, someone who speaks in Punjabi offers a level of comfort and familiarity that they often cannot find in a hospital, which can seem foreign and sterile.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We don’t make a difference in terms of whether they are documented or undocumented,” Pannu said. “But there is reluctance because they are worried if they come here, they could end up in trouble.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>By ‘ending up in trouble,’ he’s talking about getting picked up by ICE in a raid, and this is especially problematic for some of the older congregants who have this as their only point of contact with any sort of health practitioner.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>On one man’s quiet support for Sikh detainees\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>In 2016, driven purely by his own curiosity, Simran Singh made the 20-minute trip [from his home] to the \u003ca href=\"https://indiacurrents.com/for-sikhs-in-ice-detention-centers-faith-represents-hope/\">Mesa Verde detention center\u003c/a>. He didn’t expect there to be any [South Asian detainees], but was actually surprised to see that there were three.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Detention centers can be really isolating places for detainees.\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>You’ve just had a months-long journey from India to the U.S. border, and suddenly you find yourself in this place where you have very little personal space and there’s also nobody to talk to because you’re often speaking different languages.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>A phone call — an international phone call back home — costs 85 cents a minute. You can work an entire day, and you can barely scrape together enough money to speak for one minute to your family.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Singh completed a four-hour volunteer course that the detention center offers. And once he completed that, he had access to the detainees. He found that none of the detainees had access to gutke — a holy prayer book that Sikhs usually have on their person — and it is a really important part of prayer and Sikhism and of their faith.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Most of them weren’t fluent in English,” Singh said, “It was just heartwarming to see them have something that connects them to the outside world so they’re not just isolated in this place.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>He visited every week with some langar food, gutke, turban cloths and Punjabi newspapers to keep them updated on what was happening back home in India.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>On the battle to protect articles of faith behind bars\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Detainees did not have access to articles of faith — no gutke, no prayer beads, no turban cloths. There’s a lack of awareness and lack of resources on the ICE detention centers part.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067105\" class=\"wp-caption alignright\" style=\"max-width: 1200px\">\u003ca href=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/simran-middle.jpeg\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12067105\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/simran-middle.jpeg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/simran-middle.jpeg 1200w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/simran-middle-160x90.jpeg 160w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\">\u003c/a>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Simran Singh (middle) during a group tour of the Bakersfield Detention Center that he organized to raise awareness about Sikh detainees among the Sikh diaspora. \u003ccite>(Courtesy of Simran Singh.)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>For example, in detention centers, detainees cannot keep hardbound books on their person. But the gutke are almost always hardbound because they’re holy and they’re supposed to be kept protected at all times, and they shouldn’t have any damage.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>When Singh found out, he found an importer in India, a manufacturer who makes softbound gutke and he added a layer of zip-close bag protection as security. And then it was okay to distribute them among the detainees.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Another contentious article of faith is the turban. Sikh men are required to wear a turban to cover the head at all times. It’s very important to them. It’s a representation of their faith. And taking off one’s turban, especially in public, represents great dishonor among practicing Sikhs.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But in 2022, there were dozens of cases in which Sikh detainees were \u003ca href=\"https://arizonastatelawjournal.org/2022/10/03/a-call-for-accountability-u-s-border-patrol-officers-confiscate-and-discard-sikh-turbans/\">forced\u003c/a> to take off their turbans at the border by immigration officers. In some cases, the turbans were thrown into the trash right in front of them.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>On shared suffering and solidarity\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>In some ways, the detainees are all in the same boat with respect to some common struggles. They’re all away from home, they’re all anxious about their future, their families, their finances.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Often, there’s a language barrier that prevents them from connecting, except sometimes through faith. In that kind of a situation, faith becomes a really powerful thing to hang on to.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12066900\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003ca href=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251211_ICEGURUDWARA_DECEMBER_GH-7-KQED.jpg\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12066900\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251211_ICEGURUDWARA_DECEMBER_GH-7-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251211_ICEGURUDWARA_DECEMBER_GH-7-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251211_ICEGURUDWARA_DECEMBER_GH-7-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/20251211_ICEGURUDWARA_DECEMBER_GH-7-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003c/a>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Worshippers sit on the floor and eat langar, a free communal meal, inside Gurdwara Sahib Hayward in Hayward on Dec. 11, 2025. Sikh temples serve langar to all visitors, regardless of background or religion. \u003ccite>(Gustavo Hernandez/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Singh also found that prayer beads — malas —that he was bringing to Sikh detainees are actually used by multiple faiths. They’re used in Catholicism, Islam, Hinduism and other faiths as well. And that became a point of connection inside the detention center.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The South Asian detainees would also take back extra \u003cem>malas\u003c/em> to give out to people and so kind of build this relationship with someone from El Salvador or Mexico,” said Singh. “Neither of you are speaking English well, but now you have something to give to them, and that gesture goes a long way.”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>On why this community needs greater attention and support\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>When Singh visited the detention facility for the first time in 2016, he saw three South Asian detainees. Now he’s seeing 65, of which half are Sikhs.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>There’s still not enough advocacy and enough support for this population, even within the Indian diaspora. It is heartening to see people like Singh stepping in, doing everything that they can and filling in that gap, but I do think there needs to be more advocacy and support and just general awareness about this population.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"title": "SFO Hacks: Here’s How to Navigate San Francisco’s Airport Like a Pro this Holiday",
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"content": "\u003cp>Between \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12065087/bay-area-airports-brace-for-record-breaking-travel-numbers-this-holiday-season\">the crowds, the security line and the anticipation\u003c/a> of being in a flying metal tube for multiple hours, the airport isn’t always this reporter’s favorite place — and perhaps you feel the same way.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And speaking of crowds, the upcoming winter holiday travel season will make \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/tag/san-francisco-international-airport\">San Francisco International Airport\u003c/a> even busier.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>All of which means that it’s a good time to learn about several of SFO’s more hidden or low-key aspects that could make your next flight out (or in) much more relaxed — enjoyable, even.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>From the shortest walkways to where to find some serenity post-security, keep reading on for the SFO hacks that even seasoned travelers might not be aware of yet, recommended by airport experts.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>(Want even more SFO tips? We have thorough guides to \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12065518/flying-home-after-thanksgiving-where-to-eat-at-sfo-airport\">the best restaurants at the airport\u003c/a> and \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11970450/sfo-layover-things-to-do-in-san-francisco\">where to visit in San Francisco if you have a long layover\u003c/a> and feel adventurous enough to take public transportation.)\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Time to explore? Travel between SFO terminals post-security\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Once you are through security, you actually can walk between terminals using the several connected corridors at the airport. (SFO’s \u003ca href=\"https://www.flysfo.com/passengers/ground-transportation/getting-around-sfo\">free Airtrain\u003c/a> connects the terminals pre-security.)\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“If you’re trying to be adventurous, you should wander around these different terminals,” said Francis Tsang, from SFO’s communications team. “There’s something for everyone.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067054\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003ca href=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-SFOEATING-62-BL-KQED.jpg\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12067054\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-SFOEATING-62-BL-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-SFOEATING-62-BL-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-SFOEATING-62-BL-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-SFOEATING-62-BL-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003c/a>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Art by Yayoi Kusama in Harvey Milk Terminal 1 at San Francisco International Airport on Dec. 10, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Tsang said people may want to check out \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12065518/flying-home-after-thanksgiving-where-to-eat-at-sfo-airport\">a specific local restaurant\u003c/a>, go shopping or \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12065083/traveling-through-sfo-airport-check-out-the-art-museum\">view the rotating art displays across the entire airport\u003c/a>, which include both pre-and post-security installations. In fact, the SFO Museum is the only airport museum accredited by the American Alliance of Museums.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You may also want to check out the architecture at Harvey Milk Terminal 1, which has recently received international\u003ca href=\"https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/12/10/3203100/0/en/Harvey-Milk-Terminal-1-at-San-Francisco-International-Airport-Wins-Prix-Versailles-World-Title.html\"> recognition\u003c/a> for its sustainable design.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Just make sure that you have time so that you don’t miss your flight,” Tsang added. And to be sure of how long you’ll actually need to stroll between terminals — and get back to your gate before boarding ends — this reporter visited SFO to time out the walk for you:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>From Terminal 1 to Terminal 2: \u003c/strong>Around a 3-minute walk\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>From Terminal 1 to International Terminal A: \u003c/strong>Less than a minute walk\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>From Terminal 2 to Terminal 3: \u003c/strong>Around a 2-minute walk\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>From Terminal 3 to International Terminal G: \u003c/strong>Around 6 minutes walk (by far the longest stretch, and it does feel like a bit of a trek.)\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067044\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003ca href=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-SFOEATING-27-BL-KQED.jpg\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12067044\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-SFOEATING-27-BL-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-SFOEATING-27-BL-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-SFOEATING-27-BL-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-SFOEATING-27-BL-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003c/a>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A passenger orders pizza from Tony’s Pizza Napoletana in Terminal 1 at San Francisco International Airport on Dec. 10, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>If you have a long layover and want to do some wandering, be prepared to do some walking. According to Tsang, Terminal 1 itself is as long as San Francisco’s \u003ca href=\"https://salesforcetower.com/\">Salesforce Tower\u003c/a> is tall: “About three and a half football fields.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Before going exploring, check out the airport’s own \u003ca href=\"https://www.flysfo.com/passengers/ground-transportation/getting-around-sfo\">guide to navigating its terminals first\u003c/a>, and make very sure you don’t accidentally exit security.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Find extra support for neurodivergent travelers\u003cstrong> \u003c/strong>\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Even though SFO has a quiet airport policy, there is a fairly large “\u003ca href=\"https://www.flysfo.com/passengers/services/sensory-room\">sensory room\u003c/a>” located in the Harvey Milk Terminal 1.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>While open to all passengers, this space was designed especially for neurodivergent travelers and their families. The room features comfy seats, a mock-up of an airplane cabin where travelers can practice being in a flight environment and several interactive wall displays. (This reporter got a real kick out of the room’s installation of lights that follow your body’s movements.)[aside postID=news_11970450 hero='https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/230925-TaxiDriver-001-BL-qut.jpg']There are also \u003ca href=\"https://www.flysfo.com/passengers/shop-dine-relax/yoga-room\">yoga and meditation rooms\u003c/a> located around the airport, including Terminal 1, 2 and 3 post-security.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You can also request extra support \u003ca href=\"https://www.tsa.gov/contact-center/form/cares\">online\u003c/a> from TSA to get through security. Filling out the TSA Cares form can get you access to extra assistance during screening for situations including:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Difficulty following instructions due to a disability or medical condition\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Mobility limitations, including difficulty standing, walking or lifting my arms\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Mobility aids or support devices\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Traveling with medically necessary liquids, gels, aerosols over 3.4oz\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Traveling with a child who has a disability or medical condition\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Traveling with a service animal\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Difficulty understanding and communicating in English.\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>If your flight is within 72 hours, you should go ahead and call (855) 787-2227.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Paws and fur-get about airport stress with SFO’s support animals\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>SFO has a program called the “\u003ca href=\"https://www.flysfo.com/passengers/services/wag-brigade-0\">Wag Brigade\u003c/a>,” where trained animals wander the terminals post-security, accompanied by their humans, for any travelers to approach, pet or cuddle before or after their flight. Tsang said you’re most likely to spot these animals mid-afternoon at SFO at Terminal 3, departures level.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The animals — including golden retrievers, rabbits and sometimes even a pig named LiLou — will be wearing vests that explicitly encourage visitors to pet them (but of course, be sure you are not confusing a Wag Brigade animal with another traveler’s service animal).\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067043\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003ca href=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-SFOEATING-25-BL-KQED.jpg\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12067043\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-SFOEATING-25-BL-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-SFOEATING-25-BL-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-SFOEATING-25-BL-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-SFOEATING-25-BL-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003c/a>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Lia, part of SFO’s Wag Brigade animal-assisted therapy program, sits near passengers at San Francisco International Airport on Dec. 10, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>The animal’s human may even have a card about their pet to hand out to you — that you can collect like a Pokémon card.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This reporter got to meet \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/corgi.lia/\">a sweetheart corgi named Lia\u003c/a>, who already had two other passengers fawning over her. If I saw Lia before a flight, I would probably have to restrain myself from taking her with me.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>If you have an early morning flight, download and monitor your airline’s app\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>This tip actually comes from \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/author/blaberge\">KQED photographer Beth LaBerge,\u003c/a> whose work you’ll see in this story, and who previously worked for years as a customer service agent for Delta Airlines — primarily at SFO.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>LaBerge said that the airport is \u003ca href=\"https://www.sfchronicle.com/travel/article/sfo-ground-delay-low-clouds-21230684.php\">known\u003c/a> for what’s called \u003ca href=\"https://avgeekery.com/why-is-my-flight-delayed-at-san-francisco-international/\">“flow control delay.”\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067210\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003ca href=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-SFOEating-86-BL_qed.jpg\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12067210\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-SFOEating-86-BL_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-SFOEating-86-BL_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-SFOEating-86-BL_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-SFOEating-86-BL_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003c/a>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Passengers wait for their flight at San Francisco International Airport on Dec. 10, 2025.\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>SFO has two main landing runways, \u003ca href=\"https://www.flysfo.com/about/airport-operations/policies-regulations/weather-impact#:~:text=SFO's%20runways%20are%20only%20750,aircraft%20must%20arrive%20single%2Dfile\">about 750 feet apart\u003c/a>. Planes can land side-by-side on a clear day. But during foggy conditions — common here in the Bay — it’s a different story.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>When\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/science/1997579/bay-area-hikes-views-clouds-marine-inversion-layer\"> the marine layer \u003c/a>comes in and visibility out on those runways drops, “SFO \u003ca href=\"https://www.flysfo.com/about/airport-operations/policies-regulations/weather-impact#:~:text=SFO's%20runways%20are%20only%20750,aircraft%20must%20arrive%20single%2Dfile\">can’t\u003c/a> have dual arrivals because the runways are too close together,” LaBerge said. In these cases, air traffic control shuts down one runway and arrivals “basically get cut in half.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>These occurrences primarily impact shorter, domestic flights in the morning — and when delays happen, it could potentially spill into the rest of the day. While there is no “surefire trick” to avoid delays on foggy days, LaBerge noticed that early flights, around 5 a.m. or 6 a.m., are sometimes able to sneak out before the fog settles.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Being proactive is one of the biggest things that I recommend to anyone flying from anywhere,” LaBerge said. She recommended that you download your airline’s app and turn on alerts, which “will give you updates about delays, gate changes [and] cancellations, and just help you stay ahead of those surprises.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad floatright]\u003c/p>\n",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>Between \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12065087/bay-area-airports-brace-for-record-breaking-travel-numbers-this-holiday-season\">the crowds, the security line and the anticipation\u003c/a> of being in a flying metal tube for multiple hours, the airport isn’t always this reporter’s favorite place — and perhaps you feel the same way.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And speaking of crowds, the upcoming winter holiday travel season will make \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/tag/san-francisco-international-airport\">San Francisco International Airport\u003c/a> even busier.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>All of which means that it’s a good time to learn about several of SFO’s more hidden or low-key aspects that could make your next flight out (or in) much more relaxed — enjoyable, even.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>From the shortest walkways to where to find some serenity post-security, keep reading on for the SFO hacks that even seasoned travelers might not be aware of yet, recommended by airport experts.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>(Want even more SFO tips? We have thorough guides to \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12065518/flying-home-after-thanksgiving-where-to-eat-at-sfo-airport\">the best restaurants at the airport\u003c/a> and \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11970450/sfo-layover-things-to-do-in-san-francisco\">where to visit in San Francisco if you have a long layover\u003c/a> and feel adventurous enough to take public transportation.)\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Time to explore? Travel between SFO terminals post-security\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Once you are through security, you actually can walk between terminals using the several connected corridors at the airport. (SFO’s \u003ca href=\"https://www.flysfo.com/passengers/ground-transportation/getting-around-sfo\">free Airtrain\u003c/a> connects the terminals pre-security.)\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“If you’re trying to be adventurous, you should wander around these different terminals,” said Francis Tsang, from SFO’s communications team. “There’s something for everyone.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067054\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003ca href=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-SFOEATING-62-BL-KQED.jpg\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12067054\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-SFOEATING-62-BL-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-SFOEATING-62-BL-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-SFOEATING-62-BL-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-SFOEATING-62-BL-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003c/a>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Art by Yayoi Kusama in Harvey Milk Terminal 1 at San Francisco International Airport on Dec. 10, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Tsang said people may want to check out \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12065518/flying-home-after-thanksgiving-where-to-eat-at-sfo-airport\">a specific local restaurant\u003c/a>, go shopping or \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12065083/traveling-through-sfo-airport-check-out-the-art-museum\">view the rotating art displays across the entire airport\u003c/a>, which include both pre-and post-security installations. In fact, the SFO Museum is the only airport museum accredited by the American Alliance of Museums.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You may also want to check out the architecture at Harvey Milk Terminal 1, which has recently received international\u003ca href=\"https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/12/10/3203100/0/en/Harvey-Milk-Terminal-1-at-San-Francisco-International-Airport-Wins-Prix-Versailles-World-Title.html\"> recognition\u003c/a> for its sustainable design.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Just make sure that you have time so that you don’t miss your flight,” Tsang added. And to be sure of how long you’ll actually need to stroll between terminals — and get back to your gate before boarding ends — this reporter visited SFO to time out the walk for you:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>From Terminal 1 to Terminal 2: \u003c/strong>Around a 3-minute walk\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>From Terminal 1 to International Terminal A: \u003c/strong>Less than a minute walk\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>From Terminal 2 to Terminal 3: \u003c/strong>Around a 2-minute walk\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>From Terminal 3 to International Terminal G: \u003c/strong>Around 6 minutes walk (by far the longest stretch, and it does feel like a bit of a trek.)\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067044\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003ca href=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-SFOEATING-27-BL-KQED.jpg\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12067044\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-SFOEATING-27-BL-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-SFOEATING-27-BL-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-SFOEATING-27-BL-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-SFOEATING-27-BL-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003c/a>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A passenger orders pizza from Tony’s Pizza Napoletana in Terminal 1 at San Francisco International Airport on Dec. 10, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>If you have a long layover and want to do some wandering, be prepared to do some walking. According to Tsang, Terminal 1 itself is as long as San Francisco’s \u003ca href=\"https://salesforcetower.com/\">Salesforce Tower\u003c/a> is tall: “About three and a half football fields.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Before going exploring, check out the airport’s own \u003ca href=\"https://www.flysfo.com/passengers/ground-transportation/getting-around-sfo\">guide to navigating its terminals first\u003c/a>, and make very sure you don’t accidentally exit security.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Find extra support for neurodivergent travelers\u003cstrong> \u003c/strong>\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Even though SFO has a quiet airport policy, there is a fairly large “\u003ca href=\"https://www.flysfo.com/passengers/services/sensory-room\">sensory room\u003c/a>” located in the Harvey Milk Terminal 1.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>While open to all passengers, this space was designed especially for neurodivergent travelers and their families. The room features comfy seats, a mock-up of an airplane cabin where travelers can practice being in a flight environment and several interactive wall displays. (This reporter got a real kick out of the room’s installation of lights that follow your body’s movements.)\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>There are also \u003ca href=\"https://www.flysfo.com/passengers/shop-dine-relax/yoga-room\">yoga and meditation rooms\u003c/a> located around the airport, including Terminal 1, 2 and 3 post-security.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You can also request extra support \u003ca href=\"https://www.tsa.gov/contact-center/form/cares\">online\u003c/a> from TSA to get through security. Filling out the TSA Cares form can get you access to extra assistance during screening for situations including:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Difficulty following instructions due to a disability or medical condition\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Mobility limitations, including difficulty standing, walking or lifting my arms\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Mobility aids or support devices\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Traveling with medically necessary liquids, gels, aerosols over 3.4oz\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Traveling with a child who has a disability or medical condition\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Traveling with a service animal\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Difficulty understanding and communicating in English.\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>If your flight is within 72 hours, you should go ahead and call (855) 787-2227.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Paws and fur-get about airport stress with SFO’s support animals\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>SFO has a program called the “\u003ca href=\"https://www.flysfo.com/passengers/services/wag-brigade-0\">Wag Brigade\u003c/a>,” where trained animals wander the terminals post-security, accompanied by their humans, for any travelers to approach, pet or cuddle before or after their flight. Tsang said you’re most likely to spot these animals mid-afternoon at SFO at Terminal 3, departures level.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The animals — including golden retrievers, rabbits and sometimes even a pig named LiLou — will be wearing vests that explicitly encourage visitors to pet them (but of course, be sure you are not confusing a Wag Brigade animal with another traveler’s service animal).\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067043\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003ca href=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-SFOEATING-25-BL-KQED.jpg\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12067043\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-SFOEATING-25-BL-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-SFOEATING-25-BL-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-SFOEATING-25-BL-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-SFOEATING-25-BL-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003c/a>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Lia, part of SFO’s Wag Brigade animal-assisted therapy program, sits near passengers at San Francisco International Airport on Dec. 10, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>The animal’s human may even have a card about their pet to hand out to you — that you can collect like a Pokémon card.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This reporter got to meet \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/corgi.lia/\">a sweetheart corgi named Lia\u003c/a>, who already had two other passengers fawning over her. If I saw Lia before a flight, I would probably have to restrain myself from taking her with me.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>If you have an early morning flight, download and monitor your airline’s app\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>This tip actually comes from \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/author/blaberge\">KQED photographer Beth LaBerge,\u003c/a> whose work you’ll see in this story, and who previously worked for years as a customer service agent for Delta Airlines — primarily at SFO.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>LaBerge said that the airport is \u003ca href=\"https://www.sfchronicle.com/travel/article/sfo-ground-delay-low-clouds-21230684.php\">known\u003c/a> for what’s called \u003ca href=\"https://avgeekery.com/why-is-my-flight-delayed-at-san-francisco-international/\">“flow control delay.”\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067210\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003ca href=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-SFOEating-86-BL_qed.jpg\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12067210\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-SFOEating-86-BL_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-SFOEating-86-BL_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-SFOEating-86-BL_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-SFOEating-86-BL_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003c/a>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Passengers wait for their flight at San Francisco International Airport on Dec. 10, 2025.\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>SFO has two main landing runways, \u003ca href=\"https://www.flysfo.com/about/airport-operations/policies-regulations/weather-impact#:~:text=SFO's%20runways%20are%20only%20750,aircraft%20must%20arrive%20single%2Dfile\">about 750 feet apart\u003c/a>. Planes can land side-by-side on a clear day. But during foggy conditions — common here in the Bay — it’s a different story.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>When\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/science/1997579/bay-area-hikes-views-clouds-marine-inversion-layer\"> the marine layer \u003c/a>comes in and visibility out on those runways drops, “SFO \u003ca href=\"https://www.flysfo.com/about/airport-operations/policies-regulations/weather-impact#:~:text=SFO's%20runways%20are%20only%20750,aircraft%20must%20arrive%20single%2Dfile\">can’t\u003c/a> have dual arrivals because the runways are too close together,” LaBerge said. In these cases, air traffic control shuts down one runway and arrivals “basically get cut in half.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>These occurrences primarily impact shorter, domestic flights in the morning — and when delays happen, it could potentially spill into the rest of the day. While there is no “surefire trick” to avoid delays on foggy days, LaBerge noticed that early flights, around 5 a.m. or 6 a.m., are sometimes able to sneak out before the fog settles.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Being proactive is one of the biggest things that I recommend to anyone flying from anywhere,” LaBerge said. She recommended that you download your airline’s app and turn on alerts, which “will give you updates about delays, gate changes [and] cancellations, and just help you stay ahead of those surprises.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"slug": "get-in-the-holiday-spirit-by-visiting-these-bay-area-christmas-tree-lanes",
"title": "Get in the Holiday Spirit by Visiting These Bay Area Christmas Tree Lanes",
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"content": "\u003cp>Mike Martin and his family were looking for their next home in the \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/tag/east-bay\">East Bay\u003c/a> when a listing came open on Thompson Avenue, \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/tag/alameda\">Alameda\u003c/a>’s “Christmas Tree Lane.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Martin had long been taking his kids to the residential street, which has been going all-out on Christmas decorations since 1938.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We were like, ‘Oh my goodness, are we up for this?’” he said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>As it turns out, they were.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Twenty years later, Martin’s decorative toy factory — the “Wrap-O-Matic,” which shuttles toy parts to be assembled and then wrapped in a magic box and ready for Santa’s delivery — is an Alameda Christmas Tree Lane staple.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This neighborhood is among a handful in the Bay Area that will be lit up all month long for the holiday season, welcoming those looking to get into the Christmas spirit to come on by.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12066791\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12066791\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-05-BL-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-05-BL-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-05-BL-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-05-BL-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Michael Martin sits with his handmade Wrap-o-Matic holiday display in front of his home on Christmas Tree Lane on the 3200 block of Thompson Avenue in Alameda on Dec. 10, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>“Being able to share this with thousands of people that come through the street is really special,” Martin said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It takes a village to keep the Christmas spirit alive on these festive streets, and that includes those who visit to enjoy the experience. Read on for some helpful suggestions, and depending on the night you drop by, you may even get to meet Santa Claus.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Just remember: Drive slowly and expect traffic along the holiday-themed streets.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Christmas Tree Lane in Alameda\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>Thompson Avenue\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Martin and his neighbors decorate their houses independently, but he said they do get together to make sure they all turn on their lights on the same day.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>He said they also coordinate with Santa, who sits in his red sleigh in the road’s median every night from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. until Dec. 23.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12066790\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12066790\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-04-BL-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-04-BL-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-04-BL-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-04-BL-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Holiday lights cover a home on Christmas Tree Lane on the 3200 block of Thompson Avenue in Alameda on Dec. 10, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>While greeting families and handing out candy canes, Santa said his elves are “hard at work” at the North Pole.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Those elves pulled together,” he said. “We’ve got Christmas in the bag.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12066793\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12066793\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-14-BL-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-14-BL-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-14-BL-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-14-BL-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A holiday display sits in front of a home on Christmas Tree Lane on the 3200 block of Thompson Avenue in Alameda on Dec. 10, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>But he won’t be there to hand out candy canes on Christmas Eve. “Of course, the 24th, he is too busy,” Martin said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Martin said the street’s business ramps up significantly as Christmas Day nears, so come soon if you’re hoping for a quieter visit — or delay until the week before the holiday to join in on the busiest, most festive time of year.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Christmas Tree Lane in Santa Rosa\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>Hermit Way and Hartley Drive\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>As far as Mark Gibbons knows, the two streets that comprise Santa Rosa’s Christmas Tree Lane have been in the holiday spirit since they were first built in the ’50s.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“When you purchase a house on these two streets here, you’ll typically find the previous person’s decorations for outside,” Gibbons said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12066792\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12066792\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-08-BL-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-08-BL-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-08-BL-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-08-BL-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Members of the Tagle Family meet Santa Claus on Christmas Tree Lane on the 3200 block of Thompson Avenue in Alameda on Dec. 10, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>When he moved in, he found a bunch of deer and a large Santa wooden cutout, the former of which they still have and display today.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But the real event is Gibbons’ commitment to playing Santa — after he moved to the area and realized that the former Santa had moved on to other commitments.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12066794\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12066794\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-15-BL-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-15-BL-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-15-BL-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-15-BL-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A Menorah sits inside a gingerbread house on Christmas Tree Lane on the 3200 block of Thompson Avenue in Alameda on Dec. 10, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>“My father in the UK has for many, many years portrayed Santa at Christmastime, and so I just thought: ‘Why not take on the mantle of doing it and bring it back?’” he said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This year, Gibbons said he’ll be out as Santa on Dec. 19 and 20.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>More festive neighborhoods in the Bay Area\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"http://crippsmasplace.org/\">\u003cstrong>Crippsmas Place\u003c/strong>\u003c/a>\u003cstrong> in Fremont\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Candy canes will be handed out nightly from 6 to 10 p.m. until Dec. 27. A full schedule of events, including appearances from Santa and Mrs. Claus, is available \u003ca href=\"https://www.crippsmasplace.org/vip-visitors-to-crippsmas-place/\">here\u003c/a>. Carolers are welcome.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12066799\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12066799\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-29-BL-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-29-BL-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-29-BL-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-29-BL-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A holiday Charlie Brown display sits in front of a home on Christmas Tree Lane on the 3200 block of Thompson Avenue in Alameda on Dec. 10, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://casadelpomba.com/\">\u003cstrong>Deacon Dave’s\u003c/strong>\u003c/a>\u003cstrong> in Livermore\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This year’s theme is “Storyland Christmas.” The display is open weeknights 6 to 9 p.m. and weekends 6 to 10 p.m. There are no public restrooms.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.cityofsancarlos.org/community/eucalyptus_ave_holiday_lights.php\">\u003cstrong>Christmas Tree Lane\u003c/strong>\u003c/a>\u003cstrong> in San Carlos\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>One-way traffic is in place on Eucalyptus Avenue between Dec. 2 and Dec. 26.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Overflow parking is available every weekend in December at Arroyo School at 1710 Arroyo Ave. Security will be present on the street.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n",
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"excerpt": "Swing by any evening this month, and you may even catch a glimpse of Santa Claus himself.\r\n",
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"title": "Get in the Holiday Spirit by Visiting These Bay Area Christmas Tree Lanes | KQED",
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"headline": "Get in the Holiday Spirit by Visiting These Bay Area Christmas Tree Lanes",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>Mike Martin and his family were looking for their next home in the \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/tag/east-bay\">East Bay\u003c/a> when a listing came open on Thompson Avenue, \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/tag/alameda\">Alameda\u003c/a>’s “Christmas Tree Lane.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Martin had long been taking his kids to the residential street, which has been going all-out on Christmas decorations since 1938.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We were like, ‘Oh my goodness, are we up for this?’” he said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>As it turns out, they were.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Twenty years later, Martin’s decorative toy factory — the “Wrap-O-Matic,” which shuttles toy parts to be assembled and then wrapped in a magic box and ready for Santa’s delivery — is an Alameda Christmas Tree Lane staple.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This neighborhood is among a handful in the Bay Area that will be lit up all month long for the holiday season, welcoming those looking to get into the Christmas spirit to come on by.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12066791\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12066791\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-05-BL-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-05-BL-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-05-BL-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-05-BL-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Michael Martin sits with his handmade Wrap-o-Matic holiday display in front of his home on Christmas Tree Lane on the 3200 block of Thompson Avenue in Alameda on Dec. 10, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>“Being able to share this with thousands of people that come through the street is really special,” Martin said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It takes a village to keep the Christmas spirit alive on these festive streets, and that includes those who visit to enjoy the experience. Read on for some helpful suggestions, and depending on the night you drop by, you may even get to meet Santa Claus.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Just remember: Drive slowly and expect traffic along the holiday-themed streets.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Christmas Tree Lane in Alameda\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>Thompson Avenue\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Martin and his neighbors decorate their houses independently, but he said they do get together to make sure they all turn on their lights on the same day.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>He said they also coordinate with Santa, who sits in his red sleigh in the road’s median every night from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. until Dec. 23.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12066790\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12066790\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-04-BL-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-04-BL-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-04-BL-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-04-BL-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Holiday lights cover a home on Christmas Tree Lane on the 3200 block of Thompson Avenue in Alameda on Dec. 10, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>While greeting families and handing out candy canes, Santa said his elves are “hard at work” at the North Pole.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Those elves pulled together,” he said. “We’ve got Christmas in the bag.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12066793\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12066793\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-14-BL-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-14-BL-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-14-BL-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-14-BL-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A holiday display sits in front of a home on Christmas Tree Lane on the 3200 block of Thompson Avenue in Alameda on Dec. 10, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>But he won’t be there to hand out candy canes on Christmas Eve. “Of course, the 24th, he is too busy,” Martin said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Martin said the street’s business ramps up significantly as Christmas Day nears, so come soon if you’re hoping for a quieter visit — or delay until the week before the holiday to join in on the busiest, most festive time of year.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Christmas Tree Lane in Santa Rosa\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>Hermit Way and Hartley Drive\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>As far as Mark Gibbons knows, the two streets that comprise Santa Rosa’s Christmas Tree Lane have been in the holiday spirit since they were first built in the ’50s.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“When you purchase a house on these two streets here, you’ll typically find the previous person’s decorations for outside,” Gibbons said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12066792\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12066792\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-08-BL-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-08-BL-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-08-BL-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-08-BL-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Members of the Tagle Family meet Santa Claus on Christmas Tree Lane on the 3200 block of Thompson Avenue in Alameda on Dec. 10, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>When he moved in, he found a bunch of deer and a large Santa wooden cutout, the former of which they still have and display today.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But the real event is Gibbons’ commitment to playing Santa — after he moved to the area and realized that the former Santa had moved on to other commitments.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12066794\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12066794\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-15-BL-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-15-BL-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-15-BL-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-15-BL-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A Menorah sits inside a gingerbread house on Christmas Tree Lane on the 3200 block of Thompson Avenue in Alameda on Dec. 10, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>“My father in the UK has for many, many years portrayed Santa at Christmastime, and so I just thought: ‘Why not take on the mantle of doing it and bring it back?’” he said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This year, Gibbons said he’ll be out as Santa on Dec. 19 and 20.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>More festive neighborhoods in the Bay Area\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"http://crippsmasplace.org/\">\u003cstrong>Crippsmas Place\u003c/strong>\u003c/a>\u003cstrong> in Fremont\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Candy canes will be handed out nightly from 6 to 10 p.m. until Dec. 27. A full schedule of events, including appearances from Santa and Mrs. Claus, is available \u003ca href=\"https://www.crippsmasplace.org/vip-visitors-to-crippsmas-place/\">here\u003c/a>. Carolers are welcome.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12066799\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12066799\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-29-BL-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-29-BL-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-29-BL-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251210-HOLIDAYLIGHTS-29-BL-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A holiday Charlie Brown display sits in front of a home on Christmas Tree Lane on the 3200 block of Thompson Avenue in Alameda on Dec. 10, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://casadelpomba.com/\">\u003cstrong>Deacon Dave’s\u003c/strong>\u003c/a>\u003cstrong> in Livermore\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This year’s theme is “Storyland Christmas.” The display is open weeknights 6 to 9 p.m. and weekends 6 to 10 p.m. There are no public restrooms.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.cityofsancarlos.org/community/eucalyptus_ave_holiday_lights.php\">\u003cstrong>Christmas Tree Lane\u003c/strong>\u003c/a>\u003cstrong> in San Carlos\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>One-way traffic is in place on Eucalyptus Avenue between Dec. 2 and Dec. 26.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Overflow parking is available every weekend in December at Arroyo School at 1710 Arroyo Ave. Security will be present on the street.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003c/div>\u003c/p>",
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"slug": "health-emergency-california-doctors-urge-ban-of-countertop-material-linked-to-deadly-disease",
"title": "Doctors Petition California to Ban Countertop Material Linked to Deadly Disease",
"publishDate": 1765833371,
"format": "standard",
"headTitle": "Doctors Petition California to Ban Countertop Material Linked to Deadly Disease | KQED",
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"content": "\u003cp>A medical association has petitioned California to prohibit the use of a \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12064693/california-doctors-urge-ban-on-engineered-stone-as-silicosis-cases-surge\">popular countertop construction material\u003c/a> linked to an aggressive lung disease disabling and killing stoneworkers. The campaign escalated pressure on the state to follow Australia, which became the first country to ban engineered stone last year after facing a similar health crisis.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>California has the U.S.’s strictest regulations to prevent workers from inhaling toxic silica dust — generated by the cutting, polishing and grinding of engineered stone slabs to make kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities, fireplace surfaces and other products. Most countertop fabrication shops, however, don’t have the money or capacity to comply with the rules, leaving thousands of stonecutters at risk of contracting silicosis, according to the Western Occupational & Environmental Medical Association.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The evidence is now clear that engineered stone containing crystalline silica is too toxic to fabricate and install safely, and education and enforcement alone will not be sufficient to curtail the escalating occupational health emergency caused by this product,” WOEMA’s Dec. 12 letter to regulators said. The association represents more than 600 occupational safety physicians and other experts in seven western states.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The doctors requested that the state body that adopts new job safety rules to start the process to ban all fabrication and installation tasks on engineered stone containing more than 1% crystalline silica, similar to Australia’s policy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board, which declined to comment on WOEMA’s letter, has up to six months to review and decide. The proposal is likely to face stiff opposition from manufacturers, distributors and fabricators of engineered stone, also known as quartz or artificial stone.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Artificial stone represents a growing multibillion-dollar market in the U.S., with increasing demand expected in California due to the rebuilding effort in Los Angeles after the massive fires in January 2025. More than half of the silicosis cases in the state are located in Los Angeles County.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12033047\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1999px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12033047\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/231017-StonecutterSilicosis-002-BL_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/231017-StonecutterSilicosis-002-BL_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/231017-StonecutterSilicosis-002-BL_qed-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/231017-StonecutterSilicosis-002-BL_qed-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/231017-StonecutterSilicosis-002-BL_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/231017-StonecutterSilicosis-002-BL_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/231017-StonecutterSilicosis-002-BL_qed-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A stone fabricator places his hand on a table that he cut at his home in San Francisco on Oct. 17, 2023. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Laurie Weber, who directs the International Surface Fabricators Association, said Australia’s model is not directly transferable to the U.S. economy, and that more research is needed to understand what would happen if hundreds of small and mid-size fabrication businesses suddenly had to stop working with their primary material.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“ISFA does not believe a ban is the answer. The problem is not the material. The problem is employers ignoring the law and a lack of enforcement resources to ensure compliance,” Weber said in a statement. “Before California considers a prohibition that would reshape an entire segment of the construction economy, we respectfully request clarity on how WOEMA determined that engineered stone cannot be fabricated safely — even in shops fully compliant with Cal/OSHA’s existing silica standard.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>ISFA and others in the industry instead support a licensing program, in which only shops certified to handle artificial stone following regulations have access to it. A \u003ca href=\"https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260SB20\">recent law\u003c/a> signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom that addresses the rise of silicosis through education and enforcement initially included a certification system — but that component was removed from the final draft.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>About 450 silicosis cases have been \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CCDPHP/DEODC/OHB/Pages/essdashboard.aspx\">confirmed\u003c/a> among stoneworkers in California since 2019, and regulators expect the numbers could rise to between 1,000 and 1,500 within the next decade. Nearly all of those sick are Latino men, many immigrants lacking permanent legal status, who didn’t know about the hazards of working on crystalline silica products. Twenty-five stoneworkers died, and dozens received lung transplants, according to the California Department of Public Health.[aside postID=news_12064693 hero='https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251115-DEADLY-LUNG-DISEASE-MD-01-KQED-1.jpg']\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“As long as this dangerous material remains available and is purchased and used in California, it’s inevitable that people will continue to be exposed and die,” Robert Blink, an occupational medicine doctor in San Francisco and former WOEMA president, told KQED. “There’s always resistance to change. But when you’ve got something this dangerous out there that’s literally killing people … we’ve got to stop this from going up. This is not a time for small measures, frankly.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Engineered stone can contain more than 90% crystalline silica, much more than natural stones such as marble. The factory-made material’s popularity has skyrocketed because it is stain-resistant, produced in attractive colors and designs and is often cheaper than natural stones. But many consumers are unaware of the hazards that artificial stone dust poses to the workers who shape and install their countertops.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Growing scientific evidence has shown that the silica dust released by the material is so toxic that small amounts of exposure are enough to make workers sick. The tiny airborne particles can penetrate filter masks and lodge in the lungs, causing progressive scarring and injury in workers, some as young as their 20s.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Dozens of silicosis cases have also been reported by doctors in Illinois, Utah, Colorado, Massachusetts, as well as other states that are not tracking the disease as systematically as California’s public health authorities. Those figures are widely believed to be underreported. Israel, Spain and other countries have also seen a surge in silicosis tied to engineered stone. Medical experts in the UK are urging authorities to prohibit the use of the material.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>James Nevin, an attorney at Brayton Purcell, a firm that represents hundreds of sick workers suing major manufacturers and distributors of artificial stone, said clients are located in 16 other states, including New York, Nevada, Florida, Kentucky and Hawaii.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12033303\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12033303\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/StonecutterGetty.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/StonecutterGetty.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/StonecutterGetty-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/StonecutterGetty-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/StonecutterGetty-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/StonecutterGetty-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/StonecutterGetty-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A stone countertop fabricator’s hands are covered in dust at a shop on Oct. 31, 2023, in Sun Valley, California. Inhaling fine particles can contribute to silicosis. \u003ccite>(Brian van der Brug/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>California currently bans the dry cutting of engineered stone and mandates the use of wet methods — machines that submerge or cover the material’s surface with water to suppress dust. Employers are also required to implement local exhaust ventilation, ensure employees wear powered air-purifying respirators and take other measures.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But Cal/OSHA inspectors have found most of the 120 shops they’ve visited in the last two years were violating the rules, which fabricators and doctors consider too expensive and challenging for many employers to follow. California has about 4,600 countertop fabrication workers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Major manufacturers, such as Israel-based Caesarstone, did not immediately return requests for comment on the California ban proposal, but publicly opposed a prohibition in Australia. A spokesperson for Cosentino, a company headquartered in Spain, also declined to comment, but told KQED last month that silicosis is preventable when proper safety and health measures are in place to protect workers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Both companies, which face hundreds of lawsuits by workers claiming silica-related injuries in the U.S. and other countries, have developed crystalline silica-free products for the Australian market but continue to sell high-silica engineered stone in the U.S.[aside postID=news_12066901 hero='https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251115-DEADLY-LUNG-DISEASE-MD-04-KQED-2.jpg']\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Doctors who’ve followed the issue argue that the safer alternatives have similar qualities, appearance and cost to traditional engineered stone and could be made immediately available in California, without significant economic consequences for fabrication businesses.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Policymakers have publicly expressed dismay at the rising number of silicosis cases in the state, but have not favored a prohibition so far. Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board Chair Joseph Alioto Jr. said that the state should focus its resources on expanding Cal/OSHA enforcement of current silica regulations. Alioto recommended the agency partner with local public health departments and district attorneys to assist with investigations.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We currently have a regulation to do stuff. We just need to get out into the field and do it,” said Alioto, an attorney in San Francisco, during a Nov. 20 meeting. “We just need boots on the ground to police this.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Newsom’s office declined to comment on his stance on a ban on artificial stone, referring questions to the Public Health Department. An agency spokesperson said that they are tracking the silicosis situation closely.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Lopez, a 43-year-old former stonecutter who was diagnosed with silicosis last year, said he believes removing hazardous artificial stone from fabrication shops could save lives. The once-active father of four is now confined to his East Bay home, waiting for a double lung transplant, unable to work and reliant on an oxygen supply machine to breathe.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“If I’d known about the seriousness of this disease from the beginning, I wouldn’t have worked in this field, in the stone industry, because I wouldn’t have wanted to get sick like I am now,” said Lopez, an immigrant who lacks permanent legal status, who cut countertops in California for decades. KQED is withholding his full name because he fears losing medical care if federal authorities arrest him.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“If they have the possibility of selling other products that contain zero silica, that would be better, so that people don’t get sick,” he said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad floatright]\u003c/p>\n",
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"title": "Doctors Petition California to Ban Countertop Material Linked to Deadly Disease | KQED",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>A medical association has petitioned California to prohibit the use of a \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12064693/california-doctors-urge-ban-on-engineered-stone-as-silicosis-cases-surge\">popular countertop construction material\u003c/a> linked to an aggressive lung disease disabling and killing stoneworkers. The campaign escalated pressure on the state to follow Australia, which became the first country to ban engineered stone last year after facing a similar health crisis.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>California has the U.S.’s strictest regulations to prevent workers from inhaling toxic silica dust — generated by the cutting, polishing and grinding of engineered stone slabs to make kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities, fireplace surfaces and other products. Most countertop fabrication shops, however, don’t have the money or capacity to comply with the rules, leaving thousands of stonecutters at risk of contracting silicosis, according to the Western Occupational & Environmental Medical Association.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The evidence is now clear that engineered stone containing crystalline silica is too toxic to fabricate and install safely, and education and enforcement alone will not be sufficient to curtail the escalating occupational health emergency caused by this product,” WOEMA’s Dec. 12 letter to regulators said. The association represents more than 600 occupational safety physicians and other experts in seven western states.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The doctors requested that the state body that adopts new job safety rules to start the process to ban all fabrication and installation tasks on engineered stone containing more than 1% crystalline silica, similar to Australia’s policy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board, which declined to comment on WOEMA’s letter, has up to six months to review and decide. The proposal is likely to face stiff opposition from manufacturers, distributors and fabricators of engineered stone, also known as quartz or artificial stone.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Artificial stone represents a growing multibillion-dollar market in the U.S., with increasing demand expected in California due to the rebuilding effort in Los Angeles after the massive fires in January 2025. More than half of the silicosis cases in the state are located in Los Angeles County.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12033047\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1999px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12033047\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/231017-StonecutterSilicosis-002-BL_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/231017-StonecutterSilicosis-002-BL_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/231017-StonecutterSilicosis-002-BL_qed-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/231017-StonecutterSilicosis-002-BL_qed-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/231017-StonecutterSilicosis-002-BL_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/231017-StonecutterSilicosis-002-BL_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/231017-StonecutterSilicosis-002-BL_qed-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A stone fabricator places his hand on a table that he cut at his home in San Francisco on Oct. 17, 2023. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Laurie Weber, who directs the International Surface Fabricators Association, said Australia’s model is not directly transferable to the U.S. economy, and that more research is needed to understand what would happen if hundreds of small and mid-size fabrication businesses suddenly had to stop working with their primary material.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“ISFA does not believe a ban is the answer. The problem is not the material. The problem is employers ignoring the law and a lack of enforcement resources to ensure compliance,” Weber said in a statement. “Before California considers a prohibition that would reshape an entire segment of the construction economy, we respectfully request clarity on how WOEMA determined that engineered stone cannot be fabricated safely — even in shops fully compliant with Cal/OSHA’s existing silica standard.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>ISFA and others in the industry instead support a licensing program, in which only shops certified to handle artificial stone following regulations have access to it. A \u003ca href=\"https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260SB20\">recent law\u003c/a> signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom that addresses the rise of silicosis through education and enforcement initially included a certification system — but that component was removed from the final draft.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>About 450 silicosis cases have been \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CCDPHP/DEODC/OHB/Pages/essdashboard.aspx\">confirmed\u003c/a> among stoneworkers in California since 2019, and regulators expect the numbers could rise to between 1,000 and 1,500 within the next decade. Nearly all of those sick are Latino men, many immigrants lacking permanent legal status, who didn’t know about the hazards of working on crystalline silica products. Twenty-five stoneworkers died, and dozens received lung transplants, according to the California Department of Public Health.\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“As long as this dangerous material remains available and is purchased and used in California, it’s inevitable that people will continue to be exposed and die,” Robert Blink, an occupational medicine doctor in San Francisco and former WOEMA president, told KQED. “There’s always resistance to change. But when you’ve got something this dangerous out there that’s literally killing people … we’ve got to stop this from going up. This is not a time for small measures, frankly.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Engineered stone can contain more than 90% crystalline silica, much more than natural stones such as marble. The factory-made material’s popularity has skyrocketed because it is stain-resistant, produced in attractive colors and designs and is often cheaper than natural stones. But many consumers are unaware of the hazards that artificial stone dust poses to the workers who shape and install their countertops.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Growing scientific evidence has shown that the silica dust released by the material is so toxic that small amounts of exposure are enough to make workers sick. The tiny airborne particles can penetrate filter masks and lodge in the lungs, causing progressive scarring and injury in workers, some as young as their 20s.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Dozens of silicosis cases have also been reported by doctors in Illinois, Utah, Colorado, Massachusetts, as well as other states that are not tracking the disease as systematically as California’s public health authorities. Those figures are widely believed to be underreported. Israel, Spain and other countries have also seen a surge in silicosis tied to engineered stone. Medical experts in the UK are urging authorities to prohibit the use of the material.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>James Nevin, an attorney at Brayton Purcell, a firm that represents hundreds of sick workers suing major manufacturers and distributors of artificial stone, said clients are located in 16 other states, including New York, Nevada, Florida, Kentucky and Hawaii.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12033303\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12033303\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/StonecutterGetty.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/StonecutterGetty.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/StonecutterGetty-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/StonecutterGetty-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/StonecutterGetty-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/StonecutterGetty-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/StonecutterGetty-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A stone countertop fabricator’s hands are covered in dust at a shop on Oct. 31, 2023, in Sun Valley, California. Inhaling fine particles can contribute to silicosis. \u003ccite>(Brian van der Brug/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>California currently bans the dry cutting of engineered stone and mandates the use of wet methods — machines that submerge or cover the material’s surface with water to suppress dust. Employers are also required to implement local exhaust ventilation, ensure employees wear powered air-purifying respirators and take other measures.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But Cal/OSHA inspectors have found most of the 120 shops they’ve visited in the last two years were violating the rules, which fabricators and doctors consider too expensive and challenging for many employers to follow. California has about 4,600 countertop fabrication workers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Major manufacturers, such as Israel-based Caesarstone, did not immediately return requests for comment on the California ban proposal, but publicly opposed a prohibition in Australia. A spokesperson for Cosentino, a company headquartered in Spain, also declined to comment, but told KQED last month that silicosis is preventable when proper safety and health measures are in place to protect workers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Both companies, which face hundreds of lawsuits by workers claiming silica-related injuries in the U.S. and other countries, have developed crystalline silica-free products for the Australian market but continue to sell high-silica engineered stone in the U.S.\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Doctors who’ve followed the issue argue that the safer alternatives have similar qualities, appearance and cost to traditional engineered stone and could be made immediately available in California, without significant economic consequences for fabrication businesses.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Policymakers have publicly expressed dismay at the rising number of silicosis cases in the state, but have not favored a prohibition so far. Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board Chair Joseph Alioto Jr. said that the state should focus its resources on expanding Cal/OSHA enforcement of current silica regulations. Alioto recommended the agency partner with local public health departments and district attorneys to assist with investigations.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We currently have a regulation to do stuff. We just need to get out into the field and do it,” said Alioto, an attorney in San Francisco, during a Nov. 20 meeting. “We just need boots on the ground to police this.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Newsom’s office declined to comment on his stance on a ban on artificial stone, referring questions to the Public Health Department. An agency spokesperson said that they are tracking the silicosis situation closely.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Lopez, a 43-year-old former stonecutter who was diagnosed with silicosis last year, said he believes removing hazardous artificial stone from fabrication shops could save lives. The once-active father of four is now confined to his East Bay home, waiting for a double lung transplant, unable to work and reliant on an oxygen supply machine to breathe.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“If I’d known about the seriousness of this disease from the beginning, I wouldn’t have worked in this field, in the stone industry, because I wouldn’t have wanted to get sick like I am now,” said Lopez, an immigrant who lacks permanent legal status, who cut countertops in California for decades. KQED is withholding his full name because he fears losing medical care if federal authorities arrest him.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“If they have the possibility of selling other products that contain zero silica, that would be better, so that people don’t get sick,” he said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"tagline": "The flip side of gentrification, told through one town",
"info": "Gentrification is changing cities across America, forcing people from neighborhoods they have long called home. Call them the displaced. Now those priced out of the Bay Area are looking for a better life in an unlikely place. American Suburb follows this migration to one California town along the Delta, 45 miles from San Francisco. But is this once sleepy suburb ready for them?",
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},
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"tagline": "Exploring the Bay Area, one question at a time",
"info": "KQED’s new podcast, Bay Curious, gets to the bottom of the mysteries — both profound and peculiar — that give the Bay Area its unique identity. And we’ll do it with your help! You ask the questions. You decide what Bay Curious investigates. And you join us on the journey to find the answers.",
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},
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"info": "KQED’s statewide radio news program providing daily coverage of issues, trends and public policy decisions.",
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"order": 8
},
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},
"link": "https://www.cityarts.net",
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"order": 1
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"info": "\u003cem>Code Switch\u003c/em>, which listeners will hear in the first part of the hour, has fearless and much-needed conversations about race. Hosted by journalists of color, the show tackles the subject of race head-on, exploring how it impacts every part of society — from politics and pop culture to history, sports and more.\u003cbr />\u003cbr />\u003cem>Life Kit\u003c/em>, which will be in the second part of the hour, guides you through spaces and feelings no one prepares you for — from finances to mental health, from workplace microaggressions to imposter syndrome, from relationships to parenting. The show features experts with real world experience and shares their knowledge. Because everyone needs a little help being human.\u003cbr />\u003cbr />\u003ca href=\"https://www.npr.org/podcasts/510312/codeswitch\">\u003cem>Code Switch\u003c/em> offical site and podcast\u003c/a>\u003cbr />\u003ca href=\"https://www.npr.org/lifekit\">\u003cem>Life Kit\u003c/em> offical site and podcast\u003c/a>\u003cbr />",
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"id": "commonwealth-club",
"title": "Commonwealth Club of California Podcast",
"info": "The Commonwealth Club of California is the nation's oldest and largest public affairs forum. As a non-partisan forum, The Club brings to the public airwaves diverse viewpoints on important topics. The Club's weekly radio broadcast - the oldest in the U.S., dating back to 1924 - is carried across the nation on public radio stations and is now podcasting. Our website archive features audio of our recent programs, as well as selected speeches from our long and distinguished history. This podcast feed is usually updated twice a week and is always un-edited.",
"airtime": "THU 10pm, FRI 1am",
"imageSrc": "https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Commonwealth-Club-Podcast-Tile-360x360-1.jpg",
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"source": "Commonwealth Club of California"
},
"link": "/radio/program/commonwealth-club",
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}
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"tagline": "The conversation starts here",
"info": "KQED’s live call-in program discussing local, state, national and international issues, as well as in-depth interviews.",
"airtime": "MON-FRI 9am-11am, 10pm-11pm",
"imageSrc": "https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Forum-Podcast-Tile-703x703-1.jpg",
"imageAlt": "KQED Forum with Mina Kim and Alexis Madrigal",
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"source": "kqed",
"order": 9
},
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"id": "fresh-air",
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"hidden-brain": {
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"info": "Shankar Vedantam uses science and storytelling to reveal the unconscious patterns that drive human behavior, shape our choices and direct our relationships.",
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"airtime": "SUN 7pm-8pm",
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"source": "NPR"
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"info": "Guy Raz dives into the stories behind some of the world's best known companies. How I Built This weaves a narrative journey about innovators, entrepreneurs and idealists—and the movements they built.",
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"airtime": "SUN 7:30pm-8pm",
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"tagline": "Where conversation and cultura meet",
"info": "What kind of no sabo word is Hyphenación? For us, it’s about living within a hyphenation. Like being a third-gen Mexican-American from the Texas border now living that Bay Area Chicano life. Like Xorje! Each week we bring together a couple of hyphenated Latinos to talk all about personal life choices: family, careers, relationships, belonging … everything is on the table. ",
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"jerrybrown": {
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"title": "The Political Mind of Jerry Brown",
"tagline": "Lessons from a lifetime in politics",
"info": "The Political Mind of Jerry Brown brings listeners the wisdom of the former Governor, Mayor, and presidential candidate. Scott Shafer interviewed Brown for more than 40 hours, covering the former governor's life and half-century in the political game – and Brown has some lessons he'd like to share. ",
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"order": 18
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},
"latino-usa": {
"id": "latino-usa",
"title": "Latino USA",
"airtime": "MON 1am-2am, SUN 6pm-7pm",
"info": "Latino USA, the radio journal of news and culture, is the only national, English-language radio program produced from a Latino perspective.",
"imageSrc": "https://ww2.kqed.org/radio/wp-content/uploads/sites/50/2018/04/latinoUsa.jpg",
"officialWebsiteLink": "http://latinousa.org/",
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},
"link": "/radio/program/latino-usa",
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"rss": "https://feeds.npr.org/510016/podcast.xml"
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},
"marketplace": {
"id": "marketplace",
"title": "Marketplace",
"info": "Our flagship program, helmed by Kai Ryssdal, examines what the day in money delivered, through stories, conversations, newsworthy numbers and more. Updated Monday through Friday at about 3:30 p.m. PT.",
"airtime": "MON-FRI 4pm-4:30pm, MON-WED 6:30pm-7pm",
"imageSrc": "https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Marketplace-Podcast-Tile-360x360-1.jpg",
"officialWebsiteLink": "https://www.marketplace.org/",
"meta": {
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"source": "American Public Media"
},
"link": "/radio/program/marketplace",
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"rss": "https://feeds.publicradio.org/public_feeds/marketplace-pm/rss/rss"
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},
"masters-of-scale": {
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"title": "Masters of Scale",
"info": "Masters of Scale is an original podcast in which LinkedIn co-founder and Greylock Partner Reid Hoffman sets out to describe and prove theories that explain how great entrepreneurs take their companies from zero to a gazillion in ingenious fashion.",
"airtime": "Every other Wednesday June 12 through October 16 at 8pm (repeats Thursdays at 2am)",
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"officialWebsiteLink": "https://mastersofscale.com/",
"meta": {
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"source": "WaitWhat"
},
"link": "/radio/program/masters-of-scale",
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"rss": "https://rss.art19.com/masters-of-scale"
}
},
"mindshift": {
"id": "mindshift",
"title": "MindShift",
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"info": "The MindShift podcast explores the innovations in education that are shaping how kids learn. Hosts Ki Sung and Katrina Schwartz introduce listeners to educators, researchers, parents and students who are developing effective ways to improve how kids learn. We cover topics like how fed-up administrators are developing surprising tactics to deal with classroom disruptions; how listening to podcasts are helping kids develop reading skills; the consequences of overparenting; and why interdisciplinary learning can engage students on all ends of the traditional achievement spectrum. This podcast is part of the MindShift education site, a division of KQED News. KQED is an NPR/PBS member station based in San Francisco. You can also visit the MindShift website for episodes and supplemental blog posts or tweet us \u003ca href=\"https://twitter.com/MindShiftKQED\">@MindShiftKQED\u003c/a> or visit us at \u003ca href=\"/mindshift\">MindShift.KQED.org\u003c/a>",
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