Public Counsel
President of Public Counsel, the largest pro bono law office in the nation and the public interest law firm of the Los Angeles County and Beverly Hills Bar Associations
PROFILE
Hernan Vera
Guest
FROM Hernan Vera
Press Play with Madeleine Brand
Will a new civilian oversight committee prevent police scandals? The LA County Sheriff’s Department is getting a civilian oversight committee for the first time. The department has been plagued by scandal; sheriffs have been convicted of assault and misconduct inside county jails, and former undersheriff Paul Tanaka was convicted of obstructing an FBI investigation into that abuse.
Which Way, L.A.?
If You Don’t Have a License, Who Gets the Car? The City of Los Angeles impounds the cars of unlicensed drivers for up to 30 days, which costs an average of $2000. Mayor Villaraigosa and LAPD Chief Charlie Beck want to end that practice—but the police rank and file say that would endanger public safety. As we’ll hear, it’s all about the lives--and livelihoods--of illegal immigrants, who aren’t allowed to get licenses in the first place.
Which Way, L.A.?
The Impact of Federal Budget Cuts on California The federal budget bill that still awaits final approval on Friday is 459 pages long, and nowhere does the word "California" appear, but this state accounts for about 10 percent of federal spending. Federal cuts will hit hardest at the people who depend the most on public support. We hear from housing, health, environmental and legal advocates.
Recommended
Left, Right & Center
How was the trip? President Trump's travels got less fun as he went from the Middle East to Europe.
To the Point
What is Trump's plan for Middle East peace? On his first foreign tour, President Trump has promised "peace" between Israel and the Palestinians. Are there any details for re-starting talks that have been stalled for the past three years?
To the Point
Venezuela spirals into economic and political chaos Venezuela, a country whose potential for prosperity is unmatched, finds itself on the verge of civil war. What sustains the repressive government? With time running out, guest host León Krauze looks at what the international community can do to pull the country from the edge of collapse.
To the Point
Will the Senate write a healthcare bill in secret? While Democrats and Republicans argue White House relations with Russia, another question is being decided behind closed doors: who gets help buying health insurance and who doesn't? We hear how the pros and cons are being shrouded in secrecy.