"California Pioneers Universal Health Insurance for All Immigrants"
California is set to provide free health care to over 700,000 low-income immigrants without legal status through its Medicaid program, Medi-Cal, starting Monday. This expansion, costing the state an estimated $3.1 billion annually, is part of the state's move towards universal health care. The decision comes as California faces a $68 billion budget deficit, sparking debate over the financial sustainability of the program. Advocates argue the expansion will ultimately save money by reducing emergency room visits, while critics worry about the cost and strain on the health care system. The expansion completes the inclusion of all low-income adults in Medi-Cal, regardless of immigration status, a process that began in 2015 with children and has gradually included other age groups.