California Budget

The nonpartisan Legislative Analyst warns government spending could expand California's small budget deficit over the next few years.

The nonpartisan Legislative Analyst’s Office projects a relatively small $2 billion shortfall for 2025-26, but says the state can’t afford new programs. Gov. Newsom has complained about attention on the office’s deficit estimates.

California laws governing health insurance, access to abortion and health care for undocumented immigrants could be contested during a second Trump administration.

California's two biggest public pension funds beat their earnings targets last year. That performance boosted pay incentives for executives and investment staff.

Extrapolating from a report on housing Los Angeles' homeless population, it could cost California $10 billion a year, for 10 years, to fix homelessness statewide.

A California ballot measure would dedicate tax revenue to pay doctors more if they see low-income patients with Medi-Cal insurance. Its critics worry the plan could run afoul of the federal government.

California was nearly $2 billion over forecast in corporate tax receipts this summer, including by $844 million in July. A tax change meant to help the budget deficit helped drive the surge.

A California minimum wage law that was delayed amid budget troubles is now set to go into effect Oct. 16. It’s expected to benefit hundreds of thousands of workers.

Cal State officials are projecting a 2025-26 budget hole of about $400 million to $800 million. They are warning of layoffs and academic cuts.

The California Public Employees’ Retirement system is the nation’s largest state-backed pension fund. It awarded its chief executive $667,000 bonus after a successful investment year.