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Legislative Update:
On Monday, December 2, 2024, the Legislature reconvened for the swearing in of new members and for the special legislative session focused on countering potential policy shifts by President-elect Donald Trump. The special session aims to secure additional funding for legal battles, particularly in the areas of immigration, environmental regulations, and reproductive rights. This move marks the state's renewed commitment to opposing federal policies that conflict with California's more progressive agenda.
Budget:
As previously reported, California faces a projected $2 billion budget deficit for 2025-26 budget year, raising concerns about the state's ability to fund new initiatives. Despite the deficit, Governor Newsom has indicated that the state will prioritize efforts to defend its core policies and values. Measures relating to the state budget were introduced Monday, including a proposal to raise the state’s “rainy day fund” from 10 to 20%.
The Legislature:
As Cathy mentioned, 27 new members joined the state legislature on Monday. The swearing in comes with new dynamics within the state legislature. While Democrats maintain control by way of super-majority, several seats switched from democrat to republican controlled. Additionally, the Senate is now comprised of a female majority, which continues to fuel discussions around who will succeed Senator Mike McGuire as Pro Tem. Monday also featured procedural moves, including the re-election of Senate President Pro Tempore Mike McGuire and Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas. Both of which then proceeded to lower the bill introduction limits for each lawmaker for this session to 35. This is down from 50 in the Assembly and 40 in the Senate.
The 2025-26 legislative session kicked off with the introduction of over 100 bills, with several more being introduced throughout the week. Most bills were introduced as a part of the regular session activities. ACHD is currently in the process of reviewing these bills, though many are intent language or spot bills. Additionally, ACHD will finalize our advocacy strategic priorities and sponsored bill package this month. Should you have any questions or would like to provide additional feedback please do not hesitate to reach out. The Legislature will reconvene in Sacramento on January 6, 2025. A complete 2025 legislative calendar can be accessed here.
Helpful Resources:
The Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) released their 2024 Legislative Report, available here. The report includes a summary of all signed and vetoed bills that intersect with the Department, including statutory changes housed in the budget.
Member Engagement:
ACHD’s advocacy team was able to visit three healthcare districts over the last month. These visits had a focus on advocacy and gaining a better understanding of the challenges and successes of healthcare districts and how ACHD can support legislatively. Among these tours, was an all-day visit and tour with Del Puerto Healthcare District and Lara Flynn the Chief Committee Consultant for the Assembly Health Committee. This visit served as an important opportunity to continue to build a strong relationship with leaders in the legislature. We are excited to continue this work in 2025.
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