May 14, 2025
Sacramento, Calif. (May 14, 2025) – Today, Gov. Gavin Newsom unveiled a budget proposal that threatens to freeze Medi-Cal enrollment, require premiums of immigrants not eligible for federal Medicaid, and cut the California Food Assistance Program to address an estimated $12 billion shortfall.
The California Immigrant Policy Center (CIPC) issued the following statement in response to the proposal:
“We are outraged by the governor’s proposal to cut critical programs like Medi-Cal and food assistance. These moves would harm immigrant families already facing federal attacks and rising economic pressures,” said CIPC Executive Director Masih Fouladi.
“At a time when Trump and House Republicans are pushing to slash healthcare access and safety net programs while extending tax cuts for the wealthy, California must lead by protecting, not weakening, support for vulnerable communities.
“California voters agree: 64% support food assistance for all eligible families, regardless of immigration status, and 57% support Medi-Cal for all, even in the face of federal threats by Trump to cut funding to the state. These programs are essential for California’s long-term health and economic stability.
“We urge the governor to engage directly with immigrant communities and protect funding for Medi-Cal and food assistance. Amid growing federal threats to immigrants, CIPC stands ready to work with state leaders to ensure our families are safe, healthy, and economically secure through continued access to Medi-Cal, food assistance for older adults, and investments in legal services and entrepreneurship programs.”
###