Disabled Youth Discriminated Against In Kern County’s Correctional Facilities, Lawsuit Alleges
Advocates allege that the youth were not provided with adequate mental health treatment or special education services.
The Bakersfield Californian:
Lawsuit, Report Allege Kern County's Mistreatment Of Disabled Youth
A lawsuit was filed against Kern County on Wednesday by two disability rights groups claiming that youth in the county’s correctional facilities were discriminated against. Disability Rights California and Disability Rights Advocates assert that youths with mental and behavioral disabilities in Juvenile Hall and other county facilities were subjected to restraints, solitary confinement of up to 23 hours a day and pepper spray for non-violent acts more than other youths in 2017. (Luiz, 2/22)
In other news from across the state —
Santa Rosa Press Democrat:
Santa Rosa Forum Discusses Emotional, Psychological Impact Of Fires
More than five months after the North Bay wildfires, those most affected by the disaster continue to struggle with stress, anxiety and depression with many overburdened by the task of rebuilding their homes and dealing with the devastating loss of community. The ongoing emotional and psychological plight of local residents who lost friends, loved ones, pets, homes and businesses was at the heart of a mental health forum held at the Glaser Center in Santa Rosa Thursday night. (Espinoza, 2/22)
The Cannifornian:
Booming California Cannabis Delivery Businesses Running Afoul Of Law
Nearly two months after California legalized cannabis sales, the black market for marijuana continues to flourish as communities and law enforcement struggle to crack down on door-to-door couriers delivering cheaper, unregulated weed. Only 25 percent of the cannabis consumed in the state is purchased from government-approved brick-and-mortar retailers, according to a report released this week by the Cannabis Growers Association. (Krieger, 2/22)