Last Friday, Gov. Gavin Newsom unveiled his budget for 2020. There are a number of new initiatives, as well as enhancements, in key areas of state government spending. 

CapRadio’s State Government Reporter, Scott Rodd takes a deeper look into several of these areas. One is housing and homelessness, where the governor has allocated $750 million in one-time spending to “reduce homelessness by moving individuals and families into stable housing.” Newsom has added funding to transform Medi-Cal to serve those who are chronically unsheltered, as well as to undocumented seniors. 

In the area of education, the governor has initiated significant increases in funding for K-12 and community colleges, staff development and special education. And, in the area of the environment, a $750 million bond to harden critical infrastructure in communities facing wildfire risk, and to improve forest health. There are additional monies to train firefighters, augment current equipment, plus a $4.75 billion climate resilience bond for investments to reduce risks from fire, extreme heat and combat sea level rise. 

Meanwhile, Republicans in the state legislature want to see debts paid down to prepare for future lean years and which might lead to recession.

Guests

• CapRadio State Government Reporter Scott Rodd