SACRAMENTO, CA — It is encouraging that a stronger-than-anticipated revenue forecast allows us to replenish reserves used over the past two years and increase investments in public education. As the impacts of Trump’s HR1 take effect, we must also ensure that critical safety-net programs like CalFresh, IHSS, and other essential supports have stable funding to meet Californians’ needs. With continued federal threats to healthcare, education, child care, climate investments, and other priorities, the state budget must be prepared to respond.
I am disappointed that the draft budget once again falls short on housing. Long-term investments, from LIHTC to other housing programs, are essential to addressing the most urgent needs of families and workers in our district and across San Diego. As Chair of the Assembly Committee on Arts, Entertainment, Sports and Tourism, I will be clear and firm in opposing efforts to defund public media and cultural institutions, which provide trusted information, educational programming, and vital local services. As a member of the Budget Committee, I will be fully engaged in the budget process to secure strong outcomes across these critical priorities.