California nearly achieved universal healthcare. Now, millions are losing coverage

California reached a milestone two years ago, insuring ninety-five percent of its population regardless of immigration status or income. CalMatters reports that progress is now reversing, as state budget shortfalls and new federal restrictions force rollbacks to the coverage system. Researchers at UC Berkeley and UCLA project the state's uninsured rate could nearly double to almost fifteen percent by 2030, with about two point two million people losing insurance over the next four years. The state has already frozen Medi-Cal enrollment for undocumented adults, and starting next summer, immigrants without legal status will lose dental benefits and face new monthly premiums. The losses are expected to hit undocumented immigrants and low-income residents hardest, with Southern California bearing the brunt.

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