The California legislature is on the verge of restoring $40 million for LGBTQ+ health programs previously cut by Governor Gavin Newsom. This funding, which supports the Office of Health Equity's initiatives for LGBTQ+ youth and transgender individuals, was eliminated in Newsom's budget proposal, prompting backlash from lawmakers and advocacy groups. Critics argue that these cuts disproportionately affect marginalized communities, particularly undocumented LGBTQ+ individuals. The Los Angeles LGBT Center's CEO called the budget decision a betrayal of queer Californians, highlighting the systemic biases these communities face. Newsom may still negotiate the budget revisions before the signing deadline.
Let's be clear: balancing the state budget on the backs of vulnerable queer communities is a moral failure.
In cutting this funding, Governor Newsom has chosen to sacrifice the health and dignity of those already navigating intersecting barriers.
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