NE Sacramento News

The recent discussions held by California's legislative subcommittees have highlighted several key issues in the state's budget allocation for 2025-26. These discussions covered education, infrastructure, public health, and affordable housing.

In the realm of education, Subcommittee #1 led by Laird (D-Santa Cruz) with members Ochoa Bogh (R-Yucaipa) and Pérez (D-Pasadena), addressed the proposed increase in Proposition 98 spending to nearly $19,000 per pupil. Despite a 59 percent increase since 2019-2020, student performance remains below state standards in core subjects. Senator Ochoa Bogh stressed the importance of evaluating both current and future investments in education to ensure that they effectively enhance student outcomes. "I want to make sure that we make the best use of our revenues moving forward and see the progress in the students’ outcomes," she stated.

Subcommittee #2 focused on resources, environmental protection, and energy under Allen (D-Santa Monica), Choi (R-Irvine), Blakespear (D-Encinitas), and McNerney (D-Pleasanton). Concerns were raised by Senator Choi about the lack of bond funding for critical infrastructure projects like the Delta Tunnels. This initiative aims to update California’s water delivery system against threats such as sea level rise and earthquakes. Local water districts have already contributed significantly towards its planning phases. Emphasizing its importance, Senator Choi urged his colleagues to secure necessary funding: “This will guarantee California’s water security and climate resilience for the future.”

Health and human services were examined by Subcommittee #3 chaired by Weber Pierson (D-San Diego) with Grove (R-Bakersfield) and Menjivar (D-San Fernando Valley). A contentious decision was made to cut $8.4 million from the Naloxone Distribution Program which supplies Narcan—a crucial overdose-reversal drug—to first responders at no cost. Senate Republicans criticized this move as detrimental amidst a fentanyl crisis but Democrats plan to redirect funds toward "harm reduction" non-profits.

Finally, Subcommittee #4 discussed affordable housing issues under Cabaldon (D-Yolo), Niello (R-Fair Oaks), and Smallwood-Cuevas (D-Los Angeles). Despite significant annual funding allocations totaling over $13 billion since 2019 for affordable housing initiatives, prevailing wage laws and solar requirements are inflating construction costs. Senator Roger Niello questioned whether these policies hindered more affordable housing development: he asked if building more units or adhering to labor/environmental mandates was prioritized by state policy.