California Counties Unite: Assembly Budget Proposal a Step Forward, But H.R. 1 Cuts Threaten Safety Net

A coalition of California county organizations issued a joint statement Tuesday in response to the Assembly's budget proposal released Monday, calling it a significant step forward while warning that the state cannot ignore the devastating cuts to health care and food support in local communities under H.R. 1.

The statement comes from the California State Association of Counties (CSAC), Rural County Representatives of California (RCRC), Urban Counties of California (UCC), County Health Executives Association of California (CHEAC), County Medical Services Program (CMSP), California Association of Public Hospitals and Health Systems (CAPH), County Welfare Directors Association (CWDA), and County Behavioral Health Directors Association of California (CBHDA). The groups, collectively known as the County Family, said the legislative consensus is now clear: the state must act to protect California's safety net.

Mariposa County Supervisor Miles Menetrey emphasized that coverage losses under H.R. 1 will significantly increase pressure on county systems that are already stretched thin.

California counties estimate H.R. 1 will result in up to $9.5 billion each year in new costs.

The County Family stands ready to work with the Governor and Legislature to ensure the final budget deal protects California's safety net.