California's Tough Choices: Balancing the Budget on the Backs of Immigrants

California is in a tough spot. The state has a $12 billion hole in its budget. To fill it, Governor Gavin Newsom and lawmakers had to make some hard choices.

Healthcare Cuts for Immigrants

One of the biggest changes? Rolling back healthcare for low-income immigrants without legal status.

• Starting in 2026, California will stop taking new patients for this program.
• In 2027, some immigrants will have to pay a $30 monthly fee to stay on the plan.

This is a big step back from the state's goal of universal healthcare. It's also a blow to immigrant communities who rely on this support.

Other Budget Cuts

The budget also cuts funding for:

• Mental health hotlines
• Dental services for low-income people

But it does keep funding for:

• In-home care for disabled and low-income residents
• Planned Parenthood

Federal Cuts and Economic Uncertainty

The state is also dealing with potential federal cuts to healthcare and economic uncertainty. Newsom estimates federal policies could cost California $16 billion in tax revenue.

Political Criticism

• Republicans say the budget doesn't do enough to address future deficits. They also criticize Democrats for not including them in budget talks.
• Democrats say they've balanced the budget without raising taxes on everyday Californians.

Additional Funding

The budget includes money for:

• Firefighting efforts
• Public safety initiatives

But advocates say it's not enough to fully address these issues.

What's Missing

• No new money for cities and counties to tackle homelessness.
• No action on Newsom's proposal for a massive water tunnel project.