Free state parks pass for more families
The Golden Bear Pass lets people from underserved communities visit more than 200 of California’s state parks for free. It’s easier to get one thanks to the new online application from California State Parks and the Department of Social Services (CDSS). CalWORKs families no longer have to submit proof of eligibility when they apply. Instead, CDSS checks that for them. Less paperwork — more great outdoors.
Modern DMV services built around you
California’s DMV is delivering better experiences statewide. Most services are now online. All 176 field offices have higher satisfaction scores. In-person services have shorter wait times. Thousands of hours of staff time has been saved.
Faster hiring for better government
California is hiring people for state jobs faster. The Department of Human Resources (CalHR) and the Workforce Development Advisory Council are piloting new workflows to reduce processing time.
A streamlining project by CalHR and the State Personnel Board reduced job classifications. This makes it easier for people to find jobs they have the skills to do.
Transparent water rights records
It’s thanks to a new system from the State Water Resources Control Board. The California Water Accounting, Tracking, and Reporting System (CalWATRS) replaces an outdated system that’s almost 20 years old. It simplifies the reporting process and reduces errors. The public can explore water rights on a new map tool. The new system also helps state officials take action when there is drought.
Efficient government through innovation and new tech
The Office of Data and Innovation (ODI) is California’s in-house problem-solving team. They are designers, data scientists, and developers who have worked shoulder-to-shoulder with over 30 state agencies to date to rethink and rebuild how services are delivered. Their human-centered service design is powered by data and guided by empathy and real-world experiences.
They’re data scientists, developers, and designers for social good — building a government that works for you.
ODI’s 65-person team blends NASA-level data science, user experience design, and plain language communication to make state services more accessible, efficient, and equitable for millions of Californians.
Housing pipeline intelligence tool
ODI partnered with the Department of Housing and Community Development to build a first-of-its-kind digital tool that tracks affordable housing development in 539 jurisdictions. It helps local leaders clear bottlenecks and build homes faster.
Benefits Recommender
Too often, Californians miss out on benefits they qualify for. ODI partnered with over 10 state programs on the Benefits Recommender, which helps people apply for multiple programs at once — making it easier to get the help they need. Its pilot phase led to thousands more applications.
Drought forecasting
To better protect Californians from water shortages, ODI partnered with the State Water Board to build a tool that tracks usage across 2,866 communities and pinpoints those most at risk — faster and more accurately.
By spotting risk early, the state can deliver drought relief faster — helping communities stay ahead of water shortages before they become emergencies.
- 2,866 communities assessed
- Reduced data collection time by 95%
