California Expands Health Care Coverage for Low-Income Immigrants Amid Budget Deficit

Over 700,000 to Gain Access to Health Care, Sparking Economic and System Strain Concerns

California is expanding health care coverage for low-income immigrants, making it the most populous state to guarantee such coverage.
The expansion is expected to provide more than 700,000 people with full health coverage, allowing them to access preventative care and other treatment.
The expansion is estimated to cost $1.2 billion for the first six months and $3.1 billion annually thereafter, raising concerns about the economic impact as California faces a record $68 billion budget deficit.
Critics argue that the expansion could further strain the already overloaded health care system and increase the state's deficit.
Despite fears and distrust among immigrants about accepting public benefits, advocates argue that the expansion will close a gap in health care access and save the state money in the long run.