Alliance for a Better Community is encouraged by equity-forward investments in the Governor’s proposed budget, including $100 million to expand dual enrollment programs and continued support for community schools. This expansion would create meaningful opportunities for thousands of students of color and multilingual learners across California.
At the same time, ongoing budget deficits and federal funding changes require careful choices. California must protect programs that promote family stability, uphold the promise of Health4All, restore enrollment for undocumented older adults, and ensure higher education investments reach immigrant and first-generation students. We believe California can both celebrate progress and push for a budget that more fully delivers on equity.
ABC believes California’s budget must center the needs of Latina/o and immigrant communities, who make up the backbone of this state’s workforce, families, and future. As federal cuts threaten food assistance and health care access, California must protect CalFresh benefits, uphold the promise of Health4All, and ensure our undocumented and first-generation students’ needs are met. Budget choices are moral choices, and we urge state leaders to prioritize dignity, stability, and opportunity for all Californians.