Carbon Monoxide Detectors Required in All Homes by July 1

(SACRAMENTO, Calif.) -- Beginning July 1, all California homes will be required by law to have carbon monoxide detectors installed.

Officials from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection say the implementation of the new legislation will save lives, as carbon monoxide, often referred to as the “silent killer” kills an average of 480 people every year and hospitalizes more than 20,000 people across the nation annually.

Carbon monoxide is emitted by heaters, fireplaces, furnaces, and many types of appliances and cooking devices. Having a detector is the best way to be protected, officials say.

Copyright 2011 ABC News Radio

Five States Receive Funding for Clean Energy Projects

(WASHINGTON) -- The Department of Energy announced that five states were selected to receive up to $11.3 million in funding for eight geothermal technology projects.

"Through these eight projects, the Department of Energy is investing in new technologies that will further develop the nation's geothermal resources and help diversify our energy portfolio," said U.S. Energy Secretary Chu on Thursday. "By investing in geothermal research and development, we are investing in our nation's energy future and creating opportunities for energy innovation in the U.S."

The projects focusing on producing clean energy sources were selected in the following states: California, Connecticut, Louisiana, Texas, and Utah.

Copyright 2011 ABC News Radio

New Report Warns of Major Earthquake Effects

(LOS ANGELES) -- A new report by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says that a major earthquake in California would ruin the state's economy.

The report says a 7.8-magnitude earthquake on the San Andreas fault could damage 430,000 businesses and 4.5 million workers. Southern California has been expecting an earthquake of that size since the 1850s.

The counties at risk produce an estimated $206.5 billion in annual wages, according to the report.

Copyright 2011 ABC News Radio

Same-Sex Couples in California Raising More Children

(SACRAMENTO, Calif.) -- Nearly 25 percent of California's same-sex couples are raising children, and the rate of households headed by gays or lesbians grew at a rate six times faster than that of heterosexuals, according to date released Thursday from the 2010 census.

While same-sex couples living together saw a 36.2 percent increase since 2010, homosexual couples represents just 1 percent of all households in California. The rate of opposite-sex married couples also increased, rising 5.7 percent.

According to the census, Los Angeles has the most homosexual households in the state with more than 15,000 couples.

Copyright 2011 ABC News Radio

Massachusetts Man Who Faked Disappearance in California Sentenced for Scheme

(BOSTON) -- A Massachusetts man who stole from his employer Ocean Spray -- then faked his disappearance in California was sentenced to five years in prison on Wednesday.

James Repetto, a former manager at Ocean Spray, wrote fake invoices for services his friend's company never performed.  From 1999, Stanley Wheeler and Repetto, split money they received from the scheme. Facing an investigation, Repetto disappeared.  His friend called officials claiming he had disappeared at sea. The search cost the state over $250,000. Repetto, 55, was arrested a few dasy later in Yuma, Arizona.

In addition to the sentence, Repetto, has to pay over $1.3 million in restitution.

Copyright 2011 ABC News Radio