Newsom’s parting gift: A budget that delays California’s deep cuts to 2027

California's 2024 budget, negotiated by Gov. Gavin Newsom and Democratic leaders, includes $351.7 billion, delays deep social service cuts until 2027, introduces new taxes, and uses unexpected AI-driven tax revenue to balance the budget. The plan preserves Medi-Cal services, increases homelessness funding, and adds childcare spaces, but critics argue it does not address corporate contributions to Medi-Cal costs.