California legislators address potential $880 billion cut to Medicaid funding

The California Assembly Budget Committee meeting on April 10, 2025, focused on the potential impact of significant federal cuts to Medicaid funding, specifically concerning Medi-Cal, California's Medicaid program. A proposed reduction of $880 billion in federal Medicaid funding has raised alarms among state officials, who are concerned about the potential loss of billions of dollars that could affect California's budget and healthcare services.

During the meeting, committee members discussed the implications of these cuts, emphasizing that they could severely impact not only Medi-Cal but also the overall state budget. One member highlighted the importance of maintaining support for vulnerable populations, including seniors and individuals with disabilities, during the ongoing challenges posed by the global pandemic. The decision to keep these groups enrolled in Medi-Cal without requiring them to reapply was framed as a necessary action to ensure their health and safety during a time of crisis.

The discussion underscored the broader consequences of federal funding cuts, with committee members expressing the need for proactive measures to address potential budget shortfalls. The meeting concluded with a call for continued advocacy at the federal level to protect California's healthcare funding and ensure that essential services remain accessible to those in need.