FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 10, 2024

Sacramento, CA – As advocates for the resources and needs of our state’s diverse 58 counties, the California State Association of Counties (CSAC) acknowledges the considerable work ahead amidst budget uncertainty. California’s core services – from public health and safety to transportation – are delivered almost entirely by counties and those services must be protected.

Governor Newsom’s 2024-25 State Budget Proposal applies a cautious and measured use of the state’s rainy-day reserves to smooth California’s volatile revenue, but counties recognize that budget negotiations are just starting.

“The state safety-net services administered by counties are a lifeline for many vulnerable Californians,” said CSAC President and San Luis Obispo County Supervisor Bruce Gibson. “As illustrated during the Great Recession, failure to protect core and safety-net services unravels communities and ultimately increases costs and interventions to disadvantaged populations. It is essential that the Administration and Legislature protect and preserve essential county services as budget deliberations continue.”

Much like other safety-net services, progress on homelessness is contingent on the state’s willingness to make an ongoing funding commitment. Counties will continue the call to implement the CSAC AT HOME Plan, which seeks to bolster state and local collaboration and define responsibilities, aligned to funding, in statute for all levels of government — state, counties, and cities. 

“Counties appreciate the leadership of the Administration and Legislature in building the reserves that will help the state weather the deficit and in their commitment to a California for all,” said CSAC Chief Executive Officer Graham Knaus. “As the primary intergovernmental partner and service provider of the state, counties strongly encourage our state leaders to prioritize safety-net programs and services that provide critical support to millions of Californians.”

CSAC will work diligently with the Administration and Legislature to achieve a prudent budget plan that safeguards core services and enables counties to continue in their responsibility to support all Californians.

The California State Association of Counties (CSAC) is the voice of California’s 58 counties.

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