Updated COVID workplace rules went into effect Jan. 14. Several of the changes increase protections for vaccinated workers.

Legislators may work on paid leave policies, employee data protections, farmworker elections, and more. There are ballot measure proposals that could impact businesses, and business groups will raise the issue of California’s unemployment insurance fund debt.

As the pandemic shifts the landscape of investing in the Capital Region, so too are the dynamics between tech startups and investors.

The answer is no in many parts of California: Eighteen counties, mostly rural ones, have more hospitalized COVID-19 patients today than a year ago. But urban counties are faring better.

Though it’s not been without growing pains, the past year and a half has brought together parents, teachers and legislators to expand educational options.

Some solutions Capital Region governments have come up with will stay around post-pandemic, which could further improve the business climate.

In August 2018, Elk Grove launched its Startup Elk Grove Incentive Program to create local anchor companies that employ residents.

Sacramento businesses continue to adapt and recalculate as COVID-19 evolves.

As the state’s COVID-19 vaccination mandate kicks in Sept. 30, several large hospital systems say 90 percent or more of their employees are vaccinated. But they don’t have to provide data to the state unless asked.

Here is a rundown of COVID-19 mitigation efforts at some public school districts, colleges and universities in the Capital Region.