California's new governor proposes sweeping changes to health care in the state

Shortly after being sworn in on Monday, California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) announced he wants to make major changes to the state's health care system. His proposals include expanding Medi-Cal to cover undocumented young adults, requiring that all residents have health insurance, and increasing subsidies for middle-class families.

Medi-Cal is the state's program that provides free or low-cost health coverage for low-income individuals. California already covers undocumented children under the age of 19, and if Newsom's plan is enacted, it would become the first state to cover undocumented young adults up to age 26. This proposal is expected to be part of Newsom's first state budget, scheduled for release on Thursday.

While campaigning, Newsom promised to improve the state's health care system, and during his inaugural address he said he believes "every person should have access to quality, affordable health care. Far-away judges and politicians may try to turn back our progress. But we will never waver in our pursuit of guaranteed health care for all Californians." Newsom's office said he plans on sending the White House and Congress a letter asking for changes to federal laws so California can have the ability to overhaul its health care system, the Los Angeles Times reports.

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