Newsom Asks for $2.8 Billion More for Medi-Cal Program That Covers Illegal Immigrants

The governor pointed to rising medical costs as the state’s health care program balloons.

Assistant activity director Audiel Segura helps Juanita Gilbert paint a picture during an activities session at the Lifelong Medical Marin Adult Day Health Care Center on Feb. 10, 2011, in Novato, Calif. Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

California Gov. Gavin Newsom, only days after receiving a $3.44 billion loan, requested an additional $2.8 billion from the state to fund Medi-Cal, the state’s health care program that covers illegal immigrants, his office has confirmed.

The decision drew more criticism on March 17 from state leaders who claim that the rapidly ballooning program was unfairly burdening Californians.