In a move that’s sparking intense debate, California’s Democratic lawmakers have made a painful compromise in the state budget, cutting health care benefits for undocumented immigrants amid a massive budget deficit. The Latino Legislative Caucus, traditionally champions of immigrant rights, found themselves in an emotional and complex decision-making process.

The new budget will freeze Medi-Cal enrollment for adult immigrants without legal status, eliminate dental benefits for non-citizens aged 19 and older, and introduce a $30 monthly premium. These cuts are projected to save the state approximately $1 billion initially, potentially growing to over $4.3 billion ongoing.

Some caucus members, like Senator María Elena Durazo, passionately opposed the cuts. “That joy has turned into pain, that joy has turned into shame, and that joy has turned into betrayal,” she declared on the Senate floor. Despite her strong stance, nearly 30 out of 35 Latino Caucus members ultimately voted to approve the cuts.

The budget crisis places immigrants in a precarious position. Undocumented immigrants contribute nearly $8.5 billion in taxes to California and play crucial roles in the state’s economy, building businesses and raising future generations of professionals. Senator Lena Gonzalez highlighted this point, emphasizing that these immigrants “deserve to be treated with dignity”.

Republican lawmakers, who have long opposed expanding health care to undocumented immigrants, saw the cuts as fiscally responsible. Assemblymember Carl DeMaio argued that while California values immigrants, there are concerns about “prioritizing non-citizens with scarce taxpayer resources”.

Health advocates and immigrant rights groups continue to protest these cuts, chanting “health for all” and arguing that creating a two-tiered health system undermines California’s progressive values. The budget compromise includes some protections, such as a three-month grace period for re-enrollment and preserving coverage for youth.

As the state grapples with difficult financial choices, the debate underscores the complex challenges of balancing fiscal constraints with humanitarian commitments. The Latino Caucus and progressive lawmakers remain committed to finding long-term solutions that protect vulnerable communities.