With a $16 billion state budget deficit, Gov. Jerry Brown is asking California legislators to approve $8 billion in cuts to funding for healthcare, welfare, pre-school, child care and higher education. Many of these cuts will have significant impact for the elderly and the poor.

The governor’s proposal will reduce funding for Medi-Cal by $1.2 billion. Med-Cal is the California version of Medicare, a public health insurance program that provides health care services for low income families and individuals, including seniors. The proposal also includes mandatory reductions in paid hours for people who provide in-home care for the elderly and disabled.

Because of the budget cuts, programs such as In-Home Supportive Services and adult day health care programs under Medi-Cal could be eliminated or reduced. These cuts would be particularly difficult for low-income Asian elders, who rely on agencies such as SF Family Services Agency and Family Bridges, which has programs for Asian elders in the East Bay.

The California Legislature is due to pass a budget by June 15.

It’s always important to keep up to date on the budget and other issues that may affect you or the senior in your life. And don’t forget to vote!

You can find more information as the budget talks continue at California Watch.