Program Overview
Medi-Cal, California's expansive $174.6 billion Medicaid program, serves nearly 15 million residents, offering a wide range of benefits including vision, dental, and maternity care, far exceeding federal eligibility requirements.
The program's enrollment is significantly higher than other states, with California extending coverage to low-income adults without dependents and more working individuals with disabilities.
Political and Financial Challenges
Medi-Cal is under scrutiny due to proposed $880 billion GOP budget cuts, with Democrats warning of eligibility restrictions and Republicans citing fraud and abuse concerns.
To address budget overruns, California borrowed $3.4 billion and appropriated an additional $2.8 billion, amid debates on adjusting the program to maintain coverage for the state's residents.