From Joy to Shame: How California’s Latino Caucus Confronts the Crisis of Slashing Immigrant Healthcare

This story was originally published by CalMatters.

Recently, state Senator María Elena Durazo took a stand on the Senate floor regarding immigrants’ health care in California. With strong emotions, she criticized the decision to freeze Medi-Cal enrollment for undocumented immigrants and impose monthly fees.

Although budget talks had shifted focus to housing issues, Durazo remained committed to shedding light on health care. She expressed her disappointment, saying the joy of expanding Medi-Cal access last year has transformed into feelings of pain and betrayal.

Durazo’s opposition stood out among many Democrats who supported the cuts. Alongside three members of the Latino Caucus, she protested against the measure. For years, this caucus has advocated for broader health care access for immigrants, rallying around the importance of coverage for everyone.

The financial crunch California faces—with a $12 billion deficit—left the caucus in a tough spot. Critics argue that this approach unfairly burdens poor immigrants while creating a health system that treats some residents as “less than.” Yet, despite the emotional weight of the cuts, most caucus members ultimately supported the broader budget package.

Under the new agreement finalized by the Legislature and Governor Gavin Newsom, Medi-Cal enrollment for undocumented adults will pause in six months. There will also be changes to dental benefits and the introduction of monthly fees, saving an estimated $1 billion initially and over $4.3 billion in the long run.

The Latino Caucus, comprising a significant portion of California’s legislature, has historically championed immigrant-related bills. However, as the trumpeting of the budget cuts resounded, senators like Caroline Menjivar, who voted against the changes, stated that these actions would result in real consequences for people relying on health care.

Health advocates have been vocal, opposing the cuts and urging legislators to consider the implications. Mar Velez, a director at the Latino Coalition for a Healthy California, emphasized that support for universal health care should not include exceptions for any group.

Historically, the state has spent over $190 billion on Medi-Cal, which helps 15 million Californians. The rising costs have overwhelmed the system, with approximately $2.7 billion attributed to immigrant health care expenses—funded without federal aid. According to a 2023 report, over 75% of undocumented immigrants in California are from Mexico and Central America, further highlighting the impact these policies will have on communities.

As tensions rise, some lawmakers are exploring ways to fund Medi-Cal more sustainably, perhaps by requiring large businesses that employ many Medi-Cal users to contribute. Advocates call for collaborative solutions to restore trust and prioritize immigrant health in future budgets.

Ultimately, while budget constraints posed significant challenges, the promise to inclusivity remains essential for many Californians. How lawmakers navigate these changes will shape the future of health care accessibility and equity in the state.

For insights on the ongoing struggles for health care access in California, visit California Health Care Foundation.

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