Los Angeles, CA (July 1, 2026) – First 5 LA Vice President, Center for Community Engagement and Policy, Aurea Montes-Rodriguez released the following statement in response to the FY 2026-2027 California state budget signed by Governor Newsom on June 29, 2026:
“Following negotiations between California lawmakers and Governor Newsom, the FY 2026-2027 state budget signed by the Governor is a nearly $352 billion spending plan that includes a safeguard for historic reserves and investments aligned with the Governor’s stated vision for California to be more affordable, competitive and prepared for the future. Key to that future are the investments made today to support the long-term sustainability of programs, services, and safety nets that serve the health and well-being of our state’s youngest children and their families. Provisions in the budget that are in support of that vision and center the needs of children, families and communities in Los Angeles County and across the state include:
- $303.1 million in 2026-27 to provide full-scope Medi-Cal coverage to Qualified Non-Citizen populations (e.g., refugees, asylees, victims of trafficking) through July 1, 2027, allowing for uninterrupted access to vital health care services regardless of immigration status;
- $108 million for CalFood to strengthen essential food safety net programs for low-income individuals and families, including critical funding for regional food banks;
- 22,770 new child care spaces established in 2026-27, allowing nearly 150,000 more children across the state to access early learning opportunities compared to FY 2020-21;
- $5 million to support physician access and workforce development in shortage areas, and $15 million to support workforce training and expansion for promotoras, who are trusted, specialized community health workers serving as cultural and linguistic bridges between communities and healthcare systems.
“During his two-term tenure, Governor Gavin Newsom has converted his commitment to California’s youngest children from campaign pledge to lasting change, making historic investments in education, social safety nets, and family healthcare. As a champion for the state’s children, Governor Newsom consistently centered the needs of children during the critical first five years of life, prioritizing essential services and supports for families in budget and policy decisions. His record of accomplishment includes establishing universal transitional kindergarten, providing free universal school meals, expanding paid family leave, and vastly expanding state tax credits and child care access.
“Thank you, Governor Gavin Newsom, for your commitment to California’s children and families. Building upon these advancements and historic changes will take renewed commitment and stronger resolve, especially during a time when our state’s families and communities are facing rising costs, federal uncertainty, and deep affordability pressures. As Newsom noted in his public address, he aims to leave the next generation a state that is fiscally sound, economically dominant, and ready for whatever comes next. Achieving that shared vision will require strengthening our collective efforts to address the urgent needs of children and families today while advancing the long-term, systemic changes required to build a brighter future for generations to come.”
