California Attorney General Rob Bonta has outlined the California Department of Justice's efforts throughout 2024 to protect the state's people, resources, and values. The DOJ focused on various issues, including public health, safety, justice, and environmental protection.
"In 2024, the California Department of Justice worked each and every day to protect our people, values, and resources by defending Californians’ rights and taking bold action to hold corporate giants, polluters, and bad actors accountable," said Attorney General Bonta. "We worked to make our communities safer and stronger by tackling head-on threats to public health and safety – from fentanyl to gun violence to retail theft."
Key actions included addressing the fentanyl crisis with 112 related arrests in 2024. The DOJ also tackled housing issues by compelling cities to plan for new homes while protecting tenant rights. A significant lawsuit was filed against Providence St. Joseph Hospital over reproductive rights violations.
The department combated organized crime with over 1,751 arrests and addressed gun violence through various initiatives like a Ghost Gun Report. Efforts were made to safeguard public health with laws against flavored tobacco products.
Environmental actions involved lawsuits against ExxonMobil for misleading recyclability claims about plastics. Consumer protection saw legislation banning medical debt on credit reports.
Bonta emphasized reproductive freedom by filing lawsuits ensuring access to emergency abortion care in Northern California. He also secured settlements from companies involved in the opioid crisis.
Housing affordability remained a focus as settlements were reached with several cities over housing law compliance. Legislative support was given through bills enhancing accountability for housing development projects.
Gun violence reduction included discussions with local leaders and enforcing restrictions on firearm sales. Organized retail crime was targeted across multiple counties resulting in numerous arrests.
Efforts against corporate pollution led to lawsuits against major companies like ExxonMobil for their role in plastic pollution. Settlements were reached with other corporations for hazardous waste mismanagement.
Consumer protection initiatives included settlements with Johnson & Johnson over talc products containing asbestos and DoorDash for privacy violations.
Attorney General Bonta's office continued its commitment towards civil rights protections by addressing systemic issues within school districts regarding harassment complaints.
Throughout these efforts, Attorney General Bonta has maintained a focus on upholding Californians' fundamental rights as they move into 2025.