This is an L.A. Times Studios podcast.

Hi, I'm Angelica Cornado at L.A. Times Studios. Here are some of today's headlines from the Los Angeles Times.

Senate Republicans just delivered a sharp blow to California's clean air rules.

Tony Briscoe reports the chamber voted 51 to 44 to overturn a Biden-era waiver that let California enforce tougher emission standards.

This waiver included a plan to ban new gas-only cars by 2035.

If signed by President Trump and upheld in court,

the vote would strip California's ability

to enforce zero-emission mandates

and could derail similar policies in other states.

Critics say it favors big oil over the public's health,

but supporters call it a win for consumers and carmakers.

Senator Adam Schiff says the move plants poison seeds

for future disease. But on the flip side, Senator John Barroso says California's rules

try to force feed EVs to the masses. California officials vow to fight the decision, arguing

that without these standards, pollution and smog could return. As temperatures climb and beach days return,

one iconic LA spot is raising red flags.

Karen Garcia reports that for the second year in a row,

the Santa Monica Pier took the number two spot on Heel the Bay's List of California's Dirtiest Beaches.

The nonprofit tested over 500 beaches for bacteria like E. coli

and found chronic pollution right under the pier. The main sources come from urban runoff,

poor water circulation, and fish guts dumped from recreational fishing. Officials say they're working

on solutions, but the nonprofit warns visitors may be risking illness without knowing it.

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