Sen. Blakespear Praises Governor’s Budget Plan, Calls for More Funding for Prop 36

SACRAMENTO – Sen. Catherine S. Blakespear, D-Encinitas, issued the following statement on Friday about Gov. Gavin Newsom’s proposed 2026-27 budget:

“I applaud Gov. Gavin Newsom’s proposed 2026-27 budget framework, which holds to the baseline of state commitments and does not include any significant non-mandated new spending. I especially appreciate the strong support for education, an essential investment in creating a bright future for California.

I remain concerned with the lack of funding to support Proposition 36, the 2024 voter-approved measure cracking down on retail crime that mandates drug and alcohol treatment for those who need it. The budget suggests that $52 million in state savings from Proposition 47 could be used for this, but I know in talking with local agencies that is far short of what is needed. 

In addition, I will look closely at the $2.1 billion in proposed spending from the state’s $10 billion climate bond. It’s crucial that this investment be used intelligently and strategically to prevent wildfire, protect water supply and counter the impacts of climate change.

I also look forward to understanding more about how the proposed budget addresses homelessness, and I will advocate to ensure we are adequately funding solutions that get us toward ‘functional zero’ in the number of people living unsheltered on California’s streets.”

Sen. Blakespear is a member of the Senate Budget and Fiscal Review Committee and Budget Subcommittee #2. She is also Chair of the Senate Environmental Quality Committee. 

Sen. Blakespear represents Senate District 38, which covers northern San Diego County and southern Orange County. To learn more about the district and Sen. Blakespear, visit her Senate website.