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Newsom Signs Record $352B California Budget in Final Year
The plan delays some Medi-Cal cuts, adds childcare funding and sets aside $29 million to speed up California’s vote count.
On Monday, California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a $351.7 billion state budget, the largest in history, taking effect July 1. The final spending plan sets aside $28.8 billion in reserves and expands Medi-Cal to roughly 2 million undocumented immigrants.
Spending growth since Newsom took office stems largely from sustaining pre-existing programs, according to the Legislative Analyst's Office. While revenue surged due to an AI-driven stock market boom, analysts warn this windfall is potentially temporary, leaving the state vulnerable to future downturns.
To address state priorities, the budget provides $900 million for homelessness programs and 22,700 new childcare slots. It also preserves Medi-Cal for roughly 2 million undocumented immigrants at a $12 billion annual cost and allocates $29 million to accelerate ballot counting.
Critics like State Sen. Roger Niello warned the budget creates a 'balanced' appearance while leaving the next governor with a $14 billion "tab" in potential new taxes. State leaders defend the plan as protecting fiscal strength.
Lawmakers deferred critical decisions regarding corporate accountability for Medi-Cal enrollees until next year. Financial experts warn the state faces structural deficits of about $8 billion annually after Newsom departs, leaving significant fiscal questions for the next administration.