Golden State Today

Governor Gavin Newsom recently traveled to Washington, D.C., where he engaged in discussions with senior officials from the Biden-Harris Administration and members of the California Congressional Delegation. His visit focused on advancing initiatives aimed at enhancing health care, mental health services, and environmental quality in California, alongside securing disaster relief funds.

During his time in Washington, Governor Newsom emphasized the importance of collaboration between California and federal authorities. He stated, "California is continuing our work to secure additional tools and resources to improve access to health care, clean air and water, and secure critical funding to support communities recovering from disasters."

Governor Newsom met with President Joe Biden and other key figures at the White House. Their discussions centered around obtaining approval for pending disaster relief funding and programs intended to expand access to health care and improve air quality.

The governor also held meetings on Capitol Hill with members of Congress including Senator Alex Padilla, Senator-elect Adam Schiff, as well as officials from the Biden-Harris Administration. These meetings aimed at furthering efforts that enhance the overall quality of life for Californians.

In talks with Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, Governor Newsom discussed improving water quality and fish habitats while also addressing updates needed for the San Luis Dam and Reservoir project. He later met with U.S. Department of Health and Human Services officials advocating for Medicaid waivers that would increase access to health care services in California.

California is currently seeking approval for $5.2 billion in reimbursements from FEMA related to emergency funding during the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, two Medicaid waivers are under consideration which aim to bolster behavioral health services through Proposition 1 funding.

Furthermore, pending Clean Air Act waivers at the US EPA are crucial for maintaining air quality standards. According to estimates by the American Lung Association, these measures could prevent 11,000 premature deaths over three decades while offering significant health benefits valued at $116 billion.