California's Budget War: Newsom and Lawmakers Disagree on Billions for Health Care and Education

California's legislative leaders have revealed a budget plan to mitigate an anticipated $12 billion deficit, focusing on borrowing from state funds to sustain social services rather than implementing the severe cuts proposed by Gov. Gavin Newsom. While Newsom advocates for reductions to health services for low-income residents, public university funding, and homelessness initiatives, Democratic lawmakers suggest more measured reforms, often dismissing his proposals outright. They attribute the financial challenges to factors such as former President Trump's tariff policies and rising Medi-Cal enrollment. Legislative leaders emphasized that budgetary balance should not jeopardize the welfare of California’s vulnerable populations. The proposed budget includes $7.8 billion in borrowing and $3.5 billion in cuts. Notably, lawmakers aim to preserve Medi-Cal benefits, establishing a more favorable asset threshold for seniors while seeking to enhance funding for public safety and homelessness. They decisively oppose cuts affecting reproductive health funding as well.