The California State Budget
A Latina Perspective on the California State Budget
Over the past 20 years, HOPE has offered a Latina perspective on the Governor’s California State Budget. Latinas are nearly 20% of the population of California, representing the largest share (39%) of California women. In their role as mothers, Latinas are raising more than half of the children in the state. Close to sixty-two percent of Latinas also participate in the labor force. In many ways, how Latinas fare helps determine the future of the state, both in terms of their own well-being and the prospects for California’s next generation.
The state budget is a powerful tool that holds the key to equitable education, accessible healthcare, and economic opportunities for our diverse communities. Read below for responses to state budget proposals highlighting investments that impact Latinas’ access to education, health care and economic empowerment.
Track the State Budget with HOPE
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Governor's Budget
- The State Constitution requires that the Governor submit a budget to the Legislature annually by January 10. His proposal kickstarts the formal budget process.
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May Revise
- The Legislature vets the Governor’s January proposal between February and May and identifies their priorities. There are public hearings on the proposed budget and opportunities for public comment throughout the process.
- The governor must release the May Revision on or before May 14.
- Click here to view HOPE’s response to 2024 May Revise
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Final Budget Agreement
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The Legislature reviews, edits and agrees with Governor on a final budget.
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June 15 is the Constitutional deadline for the Legislature to pass the final budget.
- Click here to view HOPE’s response to the Final 2024 Budget
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Guide to the California State Budget Process
Access the Guide Here!
CEO Helen Iris Torres on the 2024-2025 Budget:
“HOPE commends our California State leadership for a balanced budget that maintains service levels for education and delivers on the commitment to expand Health care for all, which we know addresses severe health inequities for our communities. We also deeply appreciate the funding protections for the Latina Futures 2050 Lab, which sets California apart in addressing the gender equity gap and invests in Latinas so they can reach their full potential.
However, we are disappointed by the lack of funding for Cal Grant Reform in the final budget agreement which we know would have addressed college affordability for hundreds of thousands of students across the state, many of whom are women and first-generation college students.
The state budget is a powerful tool that can deliver equitable education, accessible healthcare, and economic opportunities for our diverse communities. We will continue to advocate for a budget that meets the unique needs and potential of Latinas and equips our communities with the resources they need to thrive in California.”