California Today: They Want to Rebuild. Can They Afford to Prevent the Next Fire, Too?

March 13, 2026, 6:32 a.m. Pacific time

Today’s Top Story

Stephen Ross Goldstein for The New York Times

They Want to Rebuild. Can They Afford to Prevent the Next Fire, Too?

Palisades fire victims want to raise money for disaster hardening. Their idea could be a model — if it can get past L.A.’s most vexing housing problems.

A New Lifeline Helps Inmates Transition to Life Outside the Bars

Medicaid is now paying for health care in jails and prisons, helping smooth inmates’ return to the community. Corrections and law enforcement officials say they’re all for it.

What It Takes for Flowers to Thrive in the Hottest, Driest Place in North America

Visitors are flocking to Death Valley to see a bonanza of wildflowers that has transformed this barren desert.

Andrea Constand Testifies in Support of Another Bill Cosby Accuser

Lawyers for a woman who has sued Mr. Cosby, accusing him of sexual assault, called Ms. Constand as a witness in the case, which is now being tried in California.

Trump Administration Fires New Shot in Fight Over California Clean Car Rules

A lawsuit argues that the state’s regulations would illegally force a rapid transition to electric vehicles.

Universal Will Give Movies Longer Exclusive Runs in Theaters

Theaters will get a minimum of five weekends of exclusive play and then, starting next year, seven. A pandemic-era policy was guaranteeing only three.

Remembering Marilyn Monroe, Draped in Diamonds and Coveting More

Events marking the birth centennial of the person who became Marilyn Monroe will feature jewelry — though she was rarely associated with expensive pieces offscreen.