(Los Angeles, CA) – Last week, Governor Gavin Newsom released his detailed proposal for the 2025-2026 California state budget. 

After two years of budget shortfalls, Governor Newsom outlined the 2025-2026 budget of $322 billion without a deficit. However, this welcomed change is a placeholder as California waits to see if it will continue to get federal funding for several programs after the new administration, which has threatened to slash federal funding, takes office.

In his proposed budget, Governor Newsom outlined continued support for robust economic growth, high-paying jobs, career development, and strong accountability measures to address housing, homelessness, and mental health. While there are dedicated investments for mental health, health care, poverty reduction programs, and affordable housing, key elements to the well-being of Californians are left behind. 

Governor Newsom’s budget highlights the need to preserve key investments for education and bolster workforce development. Though he aims to preserve education, the budget proposes cuts to the University of California and California State University budgets. Young Invincibles and partners are hopeful that Cal Grant Reform Act will be prioritized and receive critical funding after being excluded for the two years prior.

Young Invincibles will continue to elevate the voices of young adults and ensure their concerns are prioritized this legislative session, as seen in YI’s 2025 California Policy Agenda. This agenda was crafted with the consideration and help of the YI West Youth Advisory Board and represents the diverse perspectives of young Californian.

In response, Aurora Harris, Senior Director of Regional Strategy at Young Invincibles said:

“The misguided priorities of the 2025-2026 budget leaves many Californians behind. We commend Governor Newsom for his critical investments in education and mental health outlined in the budget, however we are disappointed as he fails to address the urgent needs of the working class and young Californians. Furthermore, the budget does not address critical gaps for low-income Californians or communities of color. It is imperative that legislators use this balanced budget as a vehicle to tackle the high cost of living and boldly address the concerns of young adults. Young Invincibles remains dedicated to ensure that the voices of young Californians are heard and their rights are protected this legislative session, and beyond.”

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Young Invincibles (YI) is a national advocacy and policy nonprofit organization focused on amplifying the voice of young people in the political process at the local, state, and federal levels. YI focuses on issues impacting young adults ages 18 to 34 in higher education, health care, economic security, and civic engagement. Our offices include Washington, D.C., California, Colorado, Illinois, New York, and Texas. For more information, please contact Emma Bittner at (972) 510-3395 or emma.bittner@younginvincibles.org