Exclusive Newsom faces fallout with key health care allies over Medi-Cal

Over 120 organizations in California, including health providers and unions, have warned Governor Gavin Newsom to preserve Medi-Cal funding or face a loss of support. Newsom's budget proposal, aimed at addressing a $68 billion deficit, threatens healthcare access for vulnerable populations, particularly undocumented immigrants. Under the proposed changes, these individuals would only be eligible for emergency and pregnancy-related care unless they enroll by January, risking essential services like prescription drugs and dental care. Community health clinics could see funding cut by 20%, jeopardizing access to services for 1. 6 million residents.

Advocacy groups, including Health Justice Action Fund, have expressed that these cuts could lead to severe health consequences, stating, "People will die" without necessary care. Newsom's office argues that the budget adjustments are a necessary response to unexpected costs of Medi-Cal expansion, which costs the state an estimated $8. 5 billion annually. Many community health advocates, who previously supported Newsom, now criticize his focus on political ambitions over the needs of Californians. The coalition plans to meet with state legislators and run a $500,000 campaign to push for changes.