Policy Updates

On June 22nd, the Governor, Senate, and Assembly reached an agreement on the language for FY 2024-25 California State Budget. Governor Newsom signed the Budget Act of 2024 and related Budget Junior bills and trailer bills in time for the fiscal year starting July 1, 2024.

After a month of negotiation and uncertainty, the Legislature officially passed the 2024-2025 budget on June 13, 2024. It is now up to Governor Newsom to approve and sign the Budget Bill Act within 12 days. The new fiscal year begins on July 1, 2024. 

Three weeks ago, Governor Newsom released his May Revision to the State Budget. In response, the State Legislature presented their response to the Governor’s proposed Budget this week. On Thursday, May 30 the State Assembly Budget Committee and State Senate Budget Subcommittee on Health and Human Services held hearings to engage with advocates, hold space for public comments, and vote on the budget plan that will be sent to the Governor.

This week the Senate and Assembly Budget Subcommittees met to discuss Governor Newsom’s May Revision to the State Budget. Both committees expressed concern, frustration, and confusion regarding the Governor’s suggested cuts and delays. Both houses raised questions over:

Each year, the Governor releases a spending plan for the state in January, and then revises it in May, after the April tax revenues are collected. Unfortunately, in this budget the Governor has not included adequate funding for any child care programs. Breaking his 2021 promise for 200,000 spaces by 2026-27, the Governor …

We’re thrilled to announce that Maisha Cole, currently the Deputy Director of the Law Center, will take over as Executive Director on June 1, 2024. 

“I have always loved this organization,” said Maisha, “and I am passionate about early childhood education as a path to justice and great opportunity. When we support families, children and child care providers, we lay the foundation for a brighter future for everyone.”