Golden State Today

Governor Gavin Newsom and the California Children’s Hospital Association (CCHA) have announced an agreement to expand health care for children in California. The expansion aims to provide additional funding for the Department of Health Care Services, supporting children's hospitals across the state.

The initiative is designed to enhance medical care for critically ill children and those suffering from severe and life-threatening diseases. Governor Newsom emphasized the importance of this support, stating, "In California, our children are not just our future – they are everything to the families that love them and the friends who play next to them. For the children suffering from the worst and most serious illnesses, we must support the hospitals that give them a fighting chance to live and thrive. I’m pleased we were able to provide this additional financial assistance and avoid a costly ballot initiative."

Ann-Louise Kuhns, President and CEO of CCHA, remarked on the collaboration with state leaders: “State government leaders asked Children’s Hospitals to think outside the box to maximize the use of federal money to achieve our goal of extending life-saving care to more critically ill children. We have found the best path to do so with less stress on the state’s budget for public health, public safety, public education and public infrastructure.”

The agreement is encapsulated in AB/SB 159. Upon legislative approval, proponents of the “Affordable, Life-Saving Healthcare for Critically Ill Children” initiative intended for the November 2024 ballot have agreed to withdraw their measure.