With today’s three-party budget agreement, the United Domestic Workers of America (UDW) acknowledges the crucial collaboration between the Assembly, the Senate and Governor Newsom in preserving and expanding essential services for vulnerable populations across the state.
UDW Executive Director Doug Moore praised California’s commitment to the In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) program, by preserving both the backup provider system, and the IHSS eligibility expansion to undocumented seniors and individuals with disabilities.
“UDW members are grateful that the Legislature and the Governor have agreed to reject the previously proposed cuts to IHSS,” said Moore. “We know that we cannot continue to balance the state budget on the backs of our youngest learners, the aging population, those living with disabilities, and the providers that care for these communities . This decision reflects that shared acknowledgement as the budget seeks to uphold these vital programs.”
Additionally, UDW Deputy Executive Director Johanna Hester addressed the ongoing child care crisis, urging further legislative and administrative action to address the growing need for child care slots.
“While we appreciate the Legislature and Governor Newsom’s work to continue funding more than 11,000 child care slots awarded in Spring 2024, we must acknowledge that the need for child care is still growing rapidly and this is merely a drop in the bucket following two years of delays,” begins Hester. “Even with the goal of reaching 200,000 slots by 2028, many families will still be left without options. We continue to urge the Legislature and the Administration to explore how we can meet California’s needs as soon as possible.”
As the state continues to navigate fiscal challenges, UDW stands firm in advocating for budget solutions and investments that prioritize the health, well-being, and economic stability of all Californians, especially our providers and the families they care for across the state.
For more information, please see UDW’s budget statement on the May Revision
