#United States #Healthcare Access #Sacramento #food insecurity #End Child Poverty California

End Child Poverty California Advocates for Budget Revisions

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — In the wake of the governor's proposed 2026-27 budget,
End Child Poverty California (ECPCA) is making a passionate appeal for state legislators
to take decisive action. They emphasize the necessity to build upon the recently outlined
budgetary provisions addressing challenges like food insecurity and recovery from wildfires.
ECPCA's President and CEO, Shimica Gaskins, highlights the importance of maintaining a financial
balance that does not undermine the welfare of California’s most vulnerable populations, particularly amidst
federal tax cut rollbacks that disproportionately benefit the wealthy.

“California stands as the world’s fourth-largest economy, and now, more than ever, we need to harness
our resources wisely to ensure that all Californians can meet their basic needs and live with dignity,”
Gaskins declared. The organization is particularly pleased with the allocation for the SUN Bucks program,
which is designed to provide children with nutritious meals when school isn't in session. Additional
investments in childcare infrastructure for communities affected by recent wildfires and further funding for the CalFresh
program are also notable positives in the proposed budget.

However, ECPCA stresses that this proposal only scratches the surface. The expected $7 billion
in additional state revenue for the upcoming fiscal year must be utilized effectively to address the looming cuts
in federal programs that support essential services for families across California. Gaskins argues, “
It is crucial that as state lawmakers, you recognize the varying impacts of federal policy changes on
our communities.”

To counteract the increasing inequality and poverty rates, ECPCA urges the governor and legislative leaders
to prioritize and strengthen several key areas:
1. Defend Access to Essential Services: Ensure that programs like CalFresh and Medi-Cal are shielded
from federal attacks, catering to thousands of Californians potentially losing crucial aid due
to recent policy shifts.
2. Remove Enrollment Barriers: Eliminate the freeze on Medi-Cal enrollment, address limited dental coverage,
and abolish premium discrepancies affecting certain immigrant adults.
3. Implement Sustainable Revenue Solutions: Establishing ongoing revenue frameworks will ensure that
communities, workers, and families that contribute to California's wealth will also benefit from its resources.

Conversely, ECPCA firmly opposes detrimental proposals that threaten to exacerbate poverty further. This includes
state-level work requirements that target immigrant communities under the guise of federal alignment,
disrupting pathways for employment that are already hindered by significant barriers. Additionally,
the removal of comprehensive Medi-Cal coverage for qualified immigrants further undermines California’s
commitment to health equity and care continuity. Also at risk are the In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS)
for seniors and disabled individuals, which are essential for maintaining the community's health and stability.

As discussions progress regarding the state’s budget for the upcoming fiscal year, ECPCA remains
committed to working collaboratively with Governor Newsom and the Legislature to finalize an agenda
that embodies the state's core values — lifting all Californians, regardless of their economic status.
If you want more information about ECPCA or if you wish to get involved in their efforts, please contact
Alexa Bluth at [email protected].

In conclusion, ECPCA’s ongoing advocacy for legislative action mirrors a broader societal imperative.
The fight against child poverty and for equitable access to resources must continue to be at the forefront
of California's budgetary planning, particularly in these challenging times.