Network's Response to Governor Newsom's Budget Proposal

Governor Newsom started out his budget press conference today saying that although it may be cliché, his proposed budget is indeed a moral document. We join other advocates in applauding the very clear statement this proposed budget makes: this Governor is ready to prioritize the health and well-being of Californians, especially those who are struggling the most. From increasing CalWORKS grants to 50% of the Federal Poverty Level ($103 for a family of three), to expanding access to health care, lengthening paid family leave, and achieving universal preschool in 3 years, it is clear our Governor has his sights on helping improve the lives of all Californians in meaningful ways.

Governor Newsom has included in his budget significant one-time investments in our state's child care and early learning system: building the child care workforce, improving child care facilities, expanding full-day kindergarten, and home visiting for new parents. He also included funding to explore how California can increase access to child care.

We are excited to work in partnership with our new Governor and Legislature to craft a budget bill that will expand access to the quality child care families need. Over 1 million young children are currently eligible for child care assistance, but don't receive it. These families, as well as many other families in California, can't afford the cost of care, and are challenged with finding care that accommodates their work schedules, or meets other criteria that is important to them.

We are just beginning the journey with a Governor and Legislative leadership who have demonstrated they genuinely care about the well-being of California's children, as well as the people who care for them. We eagerly await continued discussions with all.