Sen. María Elena Durazo’s Statement on the 2019-2020 Budget

SACRAMENTO – California Senator María Elena Durazo (D-Los Ángeles), Chair of Senate Budget Subcommittee 4, issued the following statement on the budget passed by the Legislature today:

“Today we passed an on-time budget that reflects thoughtful deliberation and commitment to critically needed programs and services. The budget plan makes investments for the future and keeps our obligation to responsible budgeting for all Californians. Of particular importance to Los Angeles, the plan makes a substantial additional payment of $2.4 billion to help local government address the crisis in affordable housing and homelessness affecting all of our communities. To address this crisis, we have to do more to help the hundreds of thousands on the verge of losing their homes.

“This year we secured full-scope Medi-Cal benefits for approximately 138,000 previously uncovered undocumented immigrants and I will continue to fight for Health4All to expand Medi-Cal to all adults, regardless of immigration status, especially seniors.

“As Chair of Sub. 4, I ensured the plan includes an additional $30 million for community-based organizations and local governments to continue census outreach efforts to reach hard-to-count populations. Garment workers will finally see justice with $7.3 million to the Garment Manufacturer’s Special Account to address the backlog of unpaid garment wage claims.

“In addition, I’m proud we were able to secure funding for my district that will contribute to the creation of world-class theater for the Latino Theater Company. In order to develop a green space in an urban community, funds will be directed to the State Parks Bowtie Parcel. To foster a deeper understanding of our diverse heritage, the Italian American Museum and Korean American Museum will also receive resources.

“My hope is that we have created a budget that prioritizes all Californians.”

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