Energy & Cost Pressures: California drivers are bracing for another summer of expensive fuel as gas tops $6 statewide and national prices hover near record highs, with officials still trying policy levers to cool demand. Consumer Confidence: Despite the pain at the pump, California’s consumer confidence rose in May, helped by hopes the Iran conflict and gas shock fade—though shoppers remain cautious. Climate & Regulation: California air regulators updated a key Cap-and-Invest climate program, drawing pushback from environmentalists and critics who say the changes weaken affordability and climate goals. AI & Work Policy: Gov. Newsom signed executive orders aimed at worker protections amid AI disruption, while California also advanced rules targeting AI chatbot toys over safety fears. Immigration Enforcement Clash: California Democrats advanced a package of anti-ICE bills, including limits on federal agents near polling places and daycare, setting up another fight with Republicans and the Trump administration. Corporate & Legal Watch: California AG Bonta sued 23andMe over a 2023 data breach affecting millions, while a separate court order froze about $12.6M tied to a Zama cUSDC contract after a dispute involving Overnight Finance. Business & Markets: Intuit shares are under pressure versus the S&P 500 as investors weigh its AI push; meanwhile, California’s housing and EV charging buildout continues with new public fast-charging funding. Public Safety: A chemical tank scare in Garden Grove led to evacuations and a state of emergency, with regulators and fire officials still assessing risks after a crack was found. Tech Startup Spotlight: Blackmagic AI launched a unified, OpenAI-compatible gateway positioned as a cheaper OpenRouter alternative for developers.