(Just The News)—The California Legislature passed a record $325 billion preliminary budget, with final details remaining to be hammered out before the start of the new fiscal year on July 1.
This record budget comes as polling finds a growing majority of Californians now support having lower taxes, in return for fewer government services. According to the nonpartisan Public Policy Institute of California, the majority of Californians supported higher taxes and more services in nearly every PPIC survey since the question was added in 2003 — that is until 2023.
Over the past decade, state spending has doubled while the population has remained largely flat. Officials say employees of the state now earn an average of $177,000, up 42% from 2019.
“This budget continues to overspend while hoping for a growth in revenue instead of cautiously preparing for the worst,” said state Sen. Roger Niello, R-Fair Oaks, who serves as vice chair of the Senate Budget and Fiscal Review Committee.
“A budget that is based on hope is a budget that is destined for despair,” Niello told The Center Square in a statement.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom proposed more proactive cuts from the taxpayer-funded Medi-Cal public health care system, including benefits for illegal immigrants, only some of which were adopted by the Legislature.
The governor’s proposals included requiring illegal immigrants enrolled in Medi-Cal to pay $100 per month in premiums and barring new illegal immigrants 19 or older from enrolling in Medi-Cal starting in January 2026.
Newsom also called for re-instituting an asset test for Medi-Cal enrollment for seniors, ending Medi-Cal coverage for weight loss drugs such as Ozempic, ending in-home supportive services coverage for illegal immigrants, and limiting in-home supportive services overtime.
The adopted budget included most of the governor’s proposals, but did not address illegal immigrant Medi-Cal premiums.
The Legislature’s analysis of the adopted budget estimates that pausing new illegal immigrant enrollment in Medi-Cal will save up to $3.3 billion per year, while ending weight-loss drug coverage for Medi-Cal will save up to $680 million per year, and reinstating Medi-Cal asset limits for seniors at $130,000 will save up to $510 million per year.
According to the state-funded Legislative Analyst’s Office’s Memorial Day weekend report on state finances, the state faces “persistent future deficits” of $10 billion to $20 billion per year — even after incorporating the savings from the governor’s proposed budget.
“To balance the budget going forward, the Legislature will likely need to adopt additional solutions that increase ongoing revenues or reduce ongoing spending — both of which involve the most difficult and consequential trade-offs for policymakers,” wrote the LAO.
As the new budget for the fiscal year hits yet another record, it’s unclear how lawmakers will seek to address the state’s worsening financial position, especially with voters’ polled preference for lowering taxes and reducing state services.
Discover the Freedom of True American Healthcare: Why America First is Revolutionizing Protection for Patriots
In a world where government overreach and skyrocketing premiums are squeezing the life out of hardworking Americans, one innovative agency is standing tall for liberty and affordability. Meet America First Healthcare—the private health insurance powerhouse dedicated to putting *you* first.
Founded by entrepreneur Jordan Sarmiento, this isn’t just insurance; it’s a shield for your family’s future, built on the unshakeable belief that private enterprise delivers better results than bureaucratic red tape.
Picture this: Jordan’s own story hits close to home for so many of us. A sudden medical emergency landed him with a staggering $95,000 bill. Under a traditional plan? He’d be buried in debt. But with America First’s patented health insurance, that nightmare shrank to just $500 out-of-pocket. That’s not a fluke—it’s the promise of coverage that works *for you*, from day one.
Breaking Free from the Chains of Conventional Coverage
Let’s face it: The status quo stinks. Marketplace.gov and big-insurance behemoths hit you with sky-high deductibles—thousands you’d have to pay before benefits even kick in—leaving massive holes in your protection. Need a routine mammogram, colonoscopy, or EKG? Good luck without forking over more cash. And don’t get us started on the gaps in dental, vision, or critical illness support when heart attacks, cancer, or kidney failure strike.
America First Healthcare flips the script. As a proud advocate for private solutions over government intervention, they craft custom plans that slash costs by 20% compared to traditional options. We’re talking comprehensive coverage that includes:
- Preventative and Wellness Care: Physical exams, screenings, and EKGs covered right away—no waiting games.
- Telemedicine Access: Virtual doctor visits anytime, anywhere, for that peace of mind.
- Accident and Critical Illness Protection: Real safeguards against life’s curveballs.
- Add-On Boosts: Dental, vision, disability, and supplemental plans to plug every leak.
Whether you’re an individual stepping off your parents’ plan, a growing family with kids in tow, or a small business owner tired of employee headaches, their tailored approach fits like a glove. Small businesses? Unlock group benefit rates usually reserved for corporate giants—without the red tape.
And for those in-between moments? Short-term insurance steps in as an ultra-affordable bridge, while life insurance ensures your loved ones are never left vulnerable.
Real Americans, Real Wins
Don’t just take our word for it. Thousands of freedom-loving families have already ditched the old system for America First. “Finally, insurance that aligns with our values and actually saves us money,” shares one client. Another raves, “Our small team got big-business perks without the hassle—it’s a game-changer.” These aren’t scripted lines; they’re the voices of patriots who’ve reclaimed control over their health destiny.
Your Move: Secure Your Shield Today
Why settle for less when you can demand better? America First Healthcare isn’t about profits—it’s about powering the American dream with reliable, value-driven protection. Plans are available year-round, no open-enrollment nonsense.
Ready to uncover the gaps in your current setup and lock in savings? Schedule your FREE healthcare review today at America First Healthcare. In under 15 minutes, their experts will map out options that fit your life, your budget, and your principles.
America First isn’t just healthcare—it’s a declaration of independence. Join the movement. Your family’s freedom starts now.