CASS Responds to the Governor’s 2025 Budget: Balancing Community Needs with Sustainability

On January 10th, millions of Californians tuned in to the presentation of Governor Newsom’s 2025 budget, which serves as a critical blueprint for our state’s priorities during a time of significant financial and environmental challenges. From the rising cost of living to devastating off-season wildfires in Southern California, the stakes for bold, effective action have never been higher.

Californians for Smarter Sustainability (CASS) recognizes the need for a budget that simultaneously provides immediate relief for residents while investing in long-term solutions. However, the budget’s May Revision projected a $27.6B shortfall has already led to concerning cuts to public programs that support Californians with disabilities, students, families with young children, foster youth, and immigrant communities.

Equally alarming are reductions in funding for clean energy, water resilience, and wildfire prevention, threatening critical progress towards addressing the climate crisis. As the California Budget & Policy Center highlights, “reductions are proposed in areas including but not limited to clean energy and transportation, water and drought resilience, and wildfire resilience.”

As Governor Newsom finalizes the 2025 budget, CASS urges state leaders to prioritize:

·       Essential Services: Funding for public programs that serve vulnerable populations and ensure the well-being of everyday Californians.

·       Strategic Environmental Protections: Investments in climate resilience and disaster preparedness that safeguard our communities and natural resources.

·       Economic Stability: Thoughtful fiscal planning that avoids panic spending while maximizing the impact of taxpayer dollars.

This moment calls for balanced, forward-thinking policies that address urgent challenges while laying the groundwork for a stable and sustainable future. Now is not the time to sideline pressing financial and environmental needs.

CASS remains steadfast in amplifying the voices of California residents and advocating for a budget that reflects our shared values and builds a foundation for prosperity and sustainability across the state.