In response to the passage of the 2025-26 state budget and accompanying health budget trailer bill, California Medical Association (CMA) President Shannon Udovic-Constant, M.D., issued the following the statement:

“The California Medical Association is deeply concerned by the state legislature’s decision to approve a budget that diverts funds approved by voters for investment in Medi-Cal. Proposition 35, which was approved by 68% of California voters, was designed to protect and strengthen health care access for the 15 million Californians who depend on Medi-Cal. By redirecting these funds to close budget gaps, lawmakers are disregarding the clear message voters have sent and putting essential health services at risk.

This budget action sets a troubling precedent that could further erode California’s health care system. The decision to repurpose Prop 35 funds will increase emergency room wait times and impact access to primary and specialty care and care in hospitals, particularly in rural communities. At a time when federal threats to Medicaid are mounting, California should be leading the charge to safeguard access – not undermining it.

CMA remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that these dedicated health care funds are used as voters intended. We urge state leaders to reconsider these harmful budget actions and work to preserve the integrity of voter-approved initiatives and the health of California’s most vulnerable communities.”