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California Lawmakers Address $12B Deficit Without Service Cuts

6/12/2025

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California Lawmakers' Budget Deal

California lawmakers have struck a deal to tackle a staggering $12 billion deficit without slashing health care and social services. The plan includes a freeze on Medi-Cal enrollment for undocumented adults and introduces a $30 premium. Meanwhile, funding for higher education and public transit remains intact, even as tensions rise with the federal government over looming funding cuts.

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Minnesota Lawmakers Cut Benefits

In a contentious move, Minnesota lawmakers voted to strip health care benefits from undocumented immigrants, igniting fierce debate. The bipartisan effort saw one Democrat crossing party lines to support the measure, which is tied to a $66 billion budget aimed at resolving a $6 billion deficit. Governor Tim Walz is poised to sign the bill into law.

History

Historical Context

California's Proposition 187, enacted in 1996, sought to deny public services to undocumented immigrants, resulting in a $12 billion deficit and significant political fallout. This law's repercussions continue to resonate, as seen in Minnesota's recent bipartisan decision to cut healthcare benefits for undocumented immigrants, reflecting ongoing tensions in immigration policy and its impact on vulnerable communities.

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California Lawmakers' Budget Deal

California lawmakers have struck a deal to tackle a staggering $12 billion deficit without slashing health care and social services. The plan includes a freeze on Medi-Cal enrollment for undocumented adults and introduces a $30 premium. Meanwhile, funding for higher education and public transit remains intact, even as tensions rise with the federal government over looming funding cuts.

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