Good morning. We’re watching this video of Yellowstone wolves bringing “toys” back to their pups. Onto the five USC, Los Angeles and California stories you need to know for today.

1.

Former USC running back Reggie Bush will file a defamation lawsuit against the NCAA over a spokesperson’s 2021 claim that the two-time All American was involved in a “pay-for-play” scheme during his college tenure. In 2010, Bush’s Heisman Trophy was vacated after an NCAA investigation found he and his family received impermissible benefits, like cash, from USC. Bush sought to have his records restored amid new name, image and likeness rules in 2021, prompting the NCAA spokesperson’s claim.

2.

Gov. Gavin Newsom’s administration has vehemently opposed a bipartisan state bill that would slow the rollout of self-driving trucks on California roadways. The bill, Newsom contends, would stifle innovation and encourage valuable companies to relocate to more lenient states. Supporters argue that autonomous big rigs would throw the trucking industry into chaos and that the technology isn’t ready for the roadways.

3.

Police arrested two counterprotesters at a demonstration opposing LGBTQ+ education Monday in downtown LA. The march — whose demonstrators from across Southern California demanded that discussions of the LGBTQ+ community and sex education be kept out of schools — was the latest in a pattern of recent clashes over gender and race education in conservative regions of California.

4.

A California bill could soon permanently ban watering grass lawns at businesses and public use properties — like office parks, strip malls, universities and road medians. It wouldn’t apply to homes, apartments, cemeteries or “functional turf” like sports fields and playgrounds. The bill soared through the Assembly in May and is now moving through the Senate.

5.

Tropical Storm Hilary is expected to help delay the fire season in the chaparral and coastal regions that surround many Southern California cities — with a caveat. Once wind speeds begin to pick up, the extra moisture may mean little as dry gusts sweep embers for miles. Regardless, officials say the chances of a large fire in the Sierras are extremely low this year because of the winter’s heavy snowfall.

You’re all caught up. Thanks for reading Morning, Trojan, and have a good day. Anna Hsu copy edited this newsletter.

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