First 5 Network Challenges California's Proposed State Budget Cuts

The First 5 Network voiced its concerns over the state budget cuts proposed by Governor Gavin Newsom in response to California's budget shortfall. The organization highlighted that the cuts would significantly impact child services programs including the CalWORKS Home Visiting Program, universal transitional kindergarten, and the Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative. Additionally, these budget adjustments propose no funding for continuous Medi-Cal eligibility for children aged 0-5, further affecting young Californians and their families.

First 5 advocates, including First 5 CA Executive Director Jackie Wong and First 5 LA President and CEO Karla Pleitéz Howell, emphasized the network's dedication to advocating for the protection of core programs that support young children and families. They urged the Governor to maintain the innovative policies that supported children and families throughout the pandemic and to work together to ensure the well-being and success of the state's youngest residents. Amidst financial constraints, the network remains committed to its mission of providing essential services and rights for children.