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Wash. Gov. Ferguson: Every Washingtonian on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Will See Benefits Reduced
OLYMPIA, Washington, July 3 -- Gov. Bob Ferguson, D-Washington, issued the following news release:
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Governor Ferguson: Every Washingtonian on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program will see benefits reduced
Approximately 1 million Washingtonians receive SNAP benefits
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OLYMPIA - Governor Bob Ferguson today detailed the devastating impacts of the reconciliation bill in Congress on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Each of the 1 million Washingtonians who receive assistance from SNAP will see their benefits reduced under the reconciliation bill that passed out of Congress
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OLYMPIA, Washington, July 3 -- Gov. Bob Ferguson, D-Washington, issued the following news release:
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Governor Ferguson: Every Washingtonian on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program will see benefits reduced
Approximately 1 million Washingtonians receive SNAP benefits
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OLYMPIA - Governor Bob Ferguson today detailed the devastating impacts of the reconciliation bill in Congress on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Each of the 1 million Washingtonians who receive assistance from SNAP will see their benefits reduced under the reconciliation bill that passed out of Congresstoday. In addition, more than 130,000 Washingtonians could lose their benefits altogether.
"This bill takes food from our most vulnerable Washingtonians to give tax breaks to the ultra-wealthy," Ferguson said. "This bill is only beautiful to billionaires."
Approximately 1 million Washingtonians use SNAP benefits every month to purchase food. The reconciliation bill reduces SNAP benefits to the average household under the Thrifty Food Plan by about $56 per month. It also decreases the maximum allotment per household. For example, the maximum allotment for a family of four would drop from $975 to $848.
The bill also means more than 130,000 Washingtonians will need to meet new work requirements to keep their SNAP benefits.
The cuts will also likely ripple through the Washington economy. According to United States Department of Agriculture estimates, each dollar from the SNAP program produces more than $1.50 in economic activity at grocery stores, farmers markets and more.
In addition, the state would be on the hook for an additional $87.8 million in administrative costs associate with the program. The bill also increases Washington's cost share of benefits by, at a minimum, more than $100 million.
Media Contacts
Brionna Aho, Governor's Communications Director
Brionna.aho@gov.wa.gov
360-628-3843
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Original text here: https://governor.wa.gov/news/2025/governor-ferguson-every-washingtonian-supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program-will-see-benefits
Wash. Gov. Ferguson Denounces Congressional Republicans' Decision to Gut Medicaid in Cruel, Unprecedented Vote
OLYMPIA, Washington, July 3 -- Gov. Bob Ferguson, D-Washington, issued the following news release:
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Governor Ferguson denounces Congressional Republicans' decision to gut Medicaid in cruel, unprecedented vote
Washington among states hit hardest, with hundreds of thousands of Washingtonians losing health coverage
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OLYMPIA -- Governor Bob Ferguson denounced unprecedented cuts to Medicaid, approved by Congressional Republicans on Thursday, that will fundamentally alter Washington's health care system and result in hundreds of thousands of Washingtonians losing their health care.
Republicans
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OLYMPIA, Washington, July 3 -- Gov. Bob Ferguson, D-Washington, issued the following news release:
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Governor Ferguson denounces Congressional Republicans' decision to gut Medicaid in cruel, unprecedented vote
Washington among states hit hardest, with hundreds of thousands of Washingtonians losing health coverage
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OLYMPIA -- Governor Bob Ferguson denounced unprecedented cuts to Medicaid, approved by Congressional Republicans on Thursday, that will fundamentally alter Washington's health care system and result in hundreds of thousands of Washingtonians losing their health care.
Republicansin Congress approved $1 trillion in Medicaid cuts over the next 10 years, the largest cut to Medicaid in history, according to health policy research group Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF). The bill threatens health care access in Washington, especially in rural areas, and will cause Washington state to lose at least $1.5 billion in hospital reimbursements by 2031.
Washington's U.S. Reps. Dan Newhouse and Michael Baumgartner voted in favor of the cruel cuts, which will disproportionately affect their constituents in Eastern and Central Washington. Between these two districts, more than 500,000 people in Central and Eastern Washington are on Medicaid.
Medicaid is a critical partnership between federal and state governments. Right now, nearly 2 million Washingtonians -- roughly 1 in 5 -- are enrolled in Apple Health, the state's Medicaid program.
Washington spends $21 billion on Medicaid annually, $13 billion of which is paid by the federal government. KFF estimates Washington will lose between $31 billion and $51 billion in federal Medicaid dollars over the next 10 years, or at least $3 billion per year.
"It is impossible to overstate just how devastating this legislation will be for Washingtonians," Governor Ferguson said. "This morally bankrupt decision will cause our most vulnerable Washingtonians to lose their health care coverage and likely force hospital closures across the state, all to pay for tax breaks for the richest Americans."
These cuts will likely result in rural and urban hospital closures.
At least 250,000 Washingtonians will lose Medicaid coverage. In addition, as many as 150,000 Washingtonians will be priced out of the state's health care exchange.
These cuts effectively reverse any progress made to expand coverage under the Affordable Care Act. Last year, Washington had an uninsured rate of 4.8%, the lowest in the country. These cuts will balloon that number into double digits.
An analysis of the cuts from KFF found that Washington will be among the states hit hardest, estimating the state will lose an estimated 26% of its Medicaid enrollment.
Children will be particularly impacted by Medicaid cuts. Statewide, 800,000 children rely on Medicaid for their health care coverage. In 26 of Washington's 39 counties, more than half of all children are covered by Medicaid. In Central Washington, 70 percent of all children are enrolled in Medicaid. In some counties, that number is even greater. For example, approximately 80 percent of kids in Yakima County and approximately 90 percent of kids in Adams County are on Medicaid.
Moreover, 70 percent of all births in rural Washington are covered by the program. Medicaid enrollees account for nearly half -- 45 percent -- of all births statewide.
Other vulnerable populations will also be significantly impacted. More than 105,000 Washingtonians depend on Medicaid for long-term care, and the program covers 3 in 5 nursing home residents and 3 in 8 people with disabilities. Medicaid is also the largest payer for opioid use disorder treatment in the state.
These cuts to Medicaid will not only impact enrollees in the program. The new law will decimate federal funding for Medicaid over the next five years -- fundamentally altering the state's health care system and how Washington administers Apple Health. This administrative burden is expected to cost the state tens of millions of dollars, at a time when the state faces significant budget challenges.
Media Contacts
Brionna Aho, Governor's Communications Director
Brionna.aho@gov.wa.gov
360-628-3843
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Original text here: https://governor.wa.gov/news/2025/governor-ferguson-denounces-congressional-republicans-decision-gut-medicaid-cruel-unprecedented-vote
HAWAII GOV. GREEN SIGNS BILLS TO ENHANCE WATER SAFETY AND KUPUNA CARE
HONOLULU, Hawaii, July 3 -- Gov. Josh Green, D-Hawaii, issued the following news release:
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GOVERNOR GREEN SIGNS BILLS TO ENHANCE WATER SAFETY AND KUPUNA CARE
HONOLULU - Governor Josh Green, M.D., signed four measures into law today to strengthen Hawaii's public safety through the enactment of safety measures and protocols surrounding retention and detention ponds, as well as legislation that implements education and safeguards for pressing kupuna issues. These bills reflect the state's ongoing priorities to protect the most vulnerable in our communities by fostering awareness and launching
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HONOLULU, Hawaii, July 3 -- Gov. Josh Green, D-Hawaii, issued the following news release:
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GOVERNOR GREEN SIGNS BILLS TO ENHANCE WATER SAFETY AND KUPUNA CARE
HONOLULU - Governor Josh Green, M.D., signed four measures into law today to strengthen Hawaii's public safety through the enactment of safety measures and protocols surrounding retention and detention ponds, as well as legislation that implements education and safeguards for pressing kupuna issues. These bills reflect the state's ongoing priorities to protect the most vulnerable in our communities by fostering awareness and launchingeducational initiatives to better understand and proactively address the impacts surrounding these concerns.
"This is about the safety and well-being of our 'ohana and setting a chain of positive intention to uplift those in our community," said Governor Green. "These newly enacted laws will provide members of our communities with tools to secure housing, better understand Alzheimer's disease, and prevent drowning incidents. I am grateful for the community leaders and advocates who identified critical needs and helped bring these quality of life measures to fruition."
SB 1221: RELATING TO STORMWATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS
Senate Bill 1221 (Act 281): Due to high drowning rates in the state and the cultural significance of water in the islands, improving water safety and education remains a priority for lawmakers and advocacy groups such as Hawaii Water Safety Coalition (HWSC). To make Hawaii a safer water state, Act 281 establishes safety measures and regulations for retention and detention ponds.
Under the new law, counties will now regulate retention and detention ponds within county jurisdiction to require a permitting process for construction and proper maintenance and submission of maintenance plans to ensure compliance with safety regulations. In addition to permitting, safety measures will be mandatory, such as enclosed and secured fencing around pond perimeters, "no swimming" signage and accessible emergency buoys. While these regulations do not apply to retention and detention ponds on private property, managing entities must submit sufficient proof of safety compliance to counties. Lastly, a survey of the ponds will be conducted by counties to be submitted to the Legislature.
"This is more than just a water safety bill. Act 281 is a legacy enactment in memory of Charlotte 'Sharkey' Schaefers, a brave 5-year-old hero who risked her life to save a friend stuck in a detention pond in 2004," said Governor Green. "The life of such a young girl should have never been taken that day, and now we can hope that it will never happen again."
"SB 1221 represents a significant step forward in improving water safety and protecting Hawaii's keiki and families from preventable drowning tragedies," said Representative Jeanne Kapela (District 5 - Portions of Kea'au and Kurtistown, Mountain View, Glenwood, Fern Forest, Volcano, Pahala, Punalu'u, Na'alehu, Wai'ohinu, Hawaiian Ocean View, Ho'okena). "By regulating retention and detention ponds and requiring clear safety protocols, we are creating safer environments and honoring the memory of Charlotte 'Sharkey' Schaefers. No family should have to experience such a loss, and this legislation brings us closer to a future where tragedies like this are prevented, allowing every 'ohana to feel safer in their community."
"The HWSC thanks Governor Green and our legislators for recognizing the need to protect Hawaii residents, especially our children, from the hidden hazards of retention and detention ponds," said Allison Schaefers, Charlotte's mother. "We must never forget Sharkey's act of heroism, and this law, which is her legacy, is going to save lives in our state. It's my hope that Hawaii will become the model for a national detention and retention pond safety program."
Schaefers was the lead writer of the coalition's Hawaii Water Safety Plan, "I Palekana Kakou Ka Wai: Let Us Be Safe in the Water," released in February as a roadmap to diminishing Hawaii's drowning crisis by ensuring that everyone is safe on, in and around the water.
Kalani Vierra, Chief of Kaua'i Ocean Safety and president of the Hawaiian Lifeguard Association, which is the umbrella organization for the HWSC, said, "I'm truly speechless to witness the fruits of our dedicated collaboration over the past few years. The recent launch and publication of the Hawaii Water Safety Plan is a significant step forward, aiding our efforts to encourage Hawaii's legislation to prioritize the health and safety of our communities, especially during heavy storms. The monitoring and inspection of detention and retention ponds play a crucial role in mitigating risks."
HB 703: RELATING TO KUPUNA HOUSING
House Bill 703 (Act 282) extends the sunset date for the state's kupuna rent supplement program. Under this program, kupuna who are 62 years of age or older who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless, can qualify for access to the rent supplement program. The program that originally was scheduled to sunset in 2026, will extend to 2028 to continue providing kupuna support through rent supplement assistance, housing counseling and landlord assistance, in addition to mental health services and other support care services.
SB 1252: RELATING TO DEMENTIA
Senate Bill 1252 (Act 283): To better understand and coordinate care for kupuna in our communities who are living with Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia, Act 283 appropriates funds for training and educational programs within the University of Hawaii at Manoa John A. Burns School of Medicine. Positions will be established within the University's Department of Geriatric Medicine to develop and update the curriculum and carry out training to lay the foundation for comprehensive programs to pioneer dementia and Alzheimer's-informed care. These initiatives will provide better support and nurturing for kupuna across the state, while also strengthening the state's workforce to better address these diseases. This bill appropriates $525,000 for both fiscal years 2026 and 2027.
"The work of the Legislative Kupuna Caucus has proven yet again the importance of caring for our aging community in Hawaii," said Governor Green. "Housing is healthcare, and by extending the sunset date of the kupunahousing program, we can continue to provide dignity and access to healthy living. Advancements in our state's healthcare system to acknowledge Alzheimer's provides critical care for our kupuna, helping them get more specialized support so they can remain in the islands they call home."
"Hawaii's aging population is growing rapidly and we must prepare our healthcare workforce to meet its unique needs," said Senator Stanley Chang (District 9 - Hawaii Kai, Kuli'ou'ou, Niu, 'Aina Haina, Wai'alae-Kahala, Diamond Head, Kaimuki, Kapahulu). "Investing in JABSOM's dementia education and training supports our kupuna and strengthens the future of healthcare in our state. Act 283 helps build a local, informed workforce that can provide compassionate, expert care for individuals living with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. As someone whose father suffered from dementia, this bill is very personally meaningful to me."
"This program has been essential for our kupuna, significantly helping them secure and maintain affordable housing," said Representative Cory M. Chun (District 35 - Portions of Pearl City and Waipahu, Crestview). "Extending it means we can continue providing not only rent assistance but also the services and support necessary to keep them safe and healthy. As part of our Kupuna Caucus legislative package, this bill reflects our shared commitment to caring for Hawaii's aging population."
"Hawaii House Bill 703 and Senate Bill 1252 demonstrate the Legislature and the Governor's commitment to caring for kupuna. HB 703 ensures continued access to rent supplement assistance, helping older adults on fixed incomes avoid homelessness and maintain stable housing," said AARP Hawaii Advocacy Associate Director Audrey Suga-Nakagawa. "SB 1252 strengthens our healthcare system by investing in dementia education and workforce development. AARP Hawaii commends the Governor and the Legislature for their efforts to ensure that kupuna can choose how they live as they age."
The complete list of bills signed include the following. Click the link to see full details of the bill enacted into law.
HB 320 (ACT 284) RELATING TO SUPPORTED DECISION-MAKING AGREEMENTS
Video of the water safety bill signing can be seen here (https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://hawaii.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=f108b4805576bd697bf4dca5a&id=de7938007e&e=a99ac9e1fd__;!!LIYSdFfckKA!0RIuY2i1vNPpv09C18OOglroPMsz3zmK8mvdhDZQK5kDixDPJZNocMeSMqwO73k9qUgLQlYfv3OB_zcM49mfRzaub0s-$).
Video of the kupuna bill signing can be seen here (https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://hawaii.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=f108b4805576bd697bf4dca5a&id=07f68af687&e=a99ac9e1fd__;!!LIYSdFfckKA!0RIuY2i1vNPpv09C18OOglroPMsz3zmK8mvdhDZQK5kDixDPJZNocMeSMqwO73k9qUgLQlYfv3OB_zcM49mfR5S7y22i$).
Photos of the bill signing ceremony, courtesy Office of the Governor, will be uploaded here (https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://hawaii.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=f108b4805576bd697bf4dca5a&id=6b84b8cd3c&e=a99ac9e1fd__;!!LIYSdFfckKA!0RIuY2i1vNPpv09C18OOglroPMsz3zmK8mvdhDZQK5kDixDPJZNocMeSMqwO73k9qUgLQlYfv3OB_zcM49mfR-UPx_Z3$).
The slide deck presented at today's water safety bill signing can be found here (https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://hawaii.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=f108b4805576bd697bf4dca5a&id=953916920f&e=a99ac9e1fd__;!!LIYSdFfckKA!0RIuY2i1vNPpv09C18OOglroPMsz3zmK8mvdhDZQK5kDixDPJZNocMeSMqwO73k9qUgLQlYfv3OB_zcM49mfR-gC56Ow$).
The slide deck presented at today's kupuna bill signing can be found here (https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://hawaii.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=f108b4805576bd697bf4dca5a&id=d6720ec6a0&e=a99ac9e1fd__;!!LIYSdFfckKA!0RIuY2i1vNPpv09C18OOglroPMsz3zmK8mvdhDZQK5kDixDPJZNocMeSMqwO73k9qUgLQlYfv3OB_zcM49mfR0HpcBC_$).
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Media Contacts:
Erika Engle
Press Secretary
Office of the Governor, State of Hawaii
Office: 808-586-0120
Email: erika.engle@hawaii.gov
Makana McClellan
Director of Communications
Office of the Governor, State of Hawaii
Cell: 808-265-0083
Email: makana.mcclellan@hawaii.gov
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ORIGINAL TEXT HERE: https://governor.hawaii.gov/newsroom/office-of-the-governor-news-release-gov-green-signs-bills-to-enhance-water-safety-and-kupuna-care/
Governor Polis: Congressional Republicans Causing Devastating, Negative Impact From Passing One Big Budget-Busting Bureaucracy-Building Act
DENVER, Colorado, July 3 -- Gov. Jared Polis, D-Colorado, issued the following news release:
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Governor Polis: Congressional Republicans Causing Devastating, Negative Impact From Passing One Big Budget-Busting Bureaucracy-Building Act
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Colorado Governor Jared Polis has been outspoken in opposition to the bill passed by Congress that will throw hundreds of thousands of people off their health care, increase the cost of living, and kill jobs. Gov. Polis released the following statement:
"The One Big Budget-Busting Bureaucracy-Building Act will raise health care costs for everyone, raise
... Show Full Article
DENVER, Colorado, July 3 -- Gov. Jared Polis, D-Colorado, issued the following news release:
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Governor Polis: Congressional Republicans Causing Devastating, Negative Impact From Passing One Big Budget-Busting Bureaucracy-Building Act
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Colorado Governor Jared Polis has been outspoken in opposition to the bill passed by Congress that will throw hundreds of thousands of people off their health care, increase the cost of living, and kill jobs. Gov. Polis released the following statement:
"The One Big Budget-Busting Bureaucracy-Building Act will raise health care costs for everyone, raiseour deficit and national debt, hurt kids who need access to food, and increase costs on Coloradans. It will divert money from health care to bureaucrats, leading to an unprecedented expansion of government bureaucracy. It's deeply disappointing that all the Republican members of our delegation voted for this bill, despite being warned repeatedly of the damage it will cause for their constituents and our state. Colorado Republicans and Trump now own the devastating impacts, cost increases, and chaos this bill will impose on hardworking Coloradans and Americans," said Governor Polis.
Congresswoman Boebert, Congressman Hurd, Congressman Evans, and Congressman Crank voted yes. Congressman Neguse, Congressman Crow, Congresswoman DeGette, Congresswoman Pettersen, Senator Hickenlooper, and Senator Bennet voted no. The bill passed the House 218-214.
This comes after Governor Polis joined Senator Hickenlooper, Representatives Pettersen, DeGette, Crow, and Neguse, along with community advocates in health care, clean energy and more, to urge Republicans and Congress not to pass this devastating bill.
Governor Polis has consistently sounded the alarm over the harmful impacts of this cruel and disastrous bill. Governor Polis has opposed cruel provisions in this bill, including:
* Cutting Medicaid funding, which will kick Coloradans and families off health care, while raising costs for everyone else. Earlier this year, Governor Polis and Lt. Governor Primavera sent a letter to Colorado's Congressional Delegation urging them not to cut Medicaid funding.
* Gov. Polis and a coalition of health care advocates called for devastating cuts to be removed from the bill
* Threatening SNAP funding and food access for children and families
* Killing jobs in Colorado's strong clean-energy industry
* Irresponsibly ballooning America's national debt
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Original text here: https://www.colorado.gov/governor/news/governor-polis-congressional-republicans-causing-devastating-negative-impact-passing-one-big
Governor Moore Announces Increased Energy Assistance Benefits
ANNAPOLIS, Maryland, July 3 -- Gov. Wes Moore, D-Maryland, issued the following news release:
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Governor Moore Announces Increased Energy Assistance Benefits
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ANNAPOLIS, MD -- Governor Wes Moore today announced that eligible Maryland households will begin to see increased energy assistance benefits. Through the Maryland Department of Human Services Office of Home Energy Programs, the additional benefits will help families respond to rising energy costs.
"At a time when the federal government is passing dangerous, heartless legislation to cut assistance for working families, we are standing
... Show Full Article
ANNAPOLIS, Maryland, July 3 -- Gov. Wes Moore, D-Maryland, issued the following news release:
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Governor Moore Announces Increased Energy Assistance Benefits
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ANNAPOLIS, MD -- Governor Wes Moore today announced that eligible Maryland households will begin to see increased energy assistance benefits. Through the Maryland Department of Human Services Office of Home Energy Programs, the additional benefits will help families respond to rising energy costs.
"At a time when the federal government is passing dangerous, heartless legislation to cut assistance for working families, we are standingin the breach," said Gov. Moore. "Not a day goes by without me hearing from Marylanders calling for support tackling the rising cost of energy we see nationwide. Today, we extend a hand to them, as a critical part of our work to make Maryland more affordable. We will not waver in our work to protect our people and leave no one behind."
Due in part to increased appropriations for the Strategic Energy Investment Fund, a household receiving between $130 and $575 in electric benefits last year will now receive between $250 and $1,000, and a household receiving between $150 and $301 in gas benefits last year will now receive between $300 and $550 in Fiscal Year 2026. Households that are already receiving the following benefits are automatically eligible:
* Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP);
* Supplemental Security Income (SSI);
* Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF); and
* Income-Based Veterans Affairs Benefits.
New applications for energy assistance are now open and Marylanders who are not automatically eligible are invited to apply at MarylandBenefits.gov.
"With rising temperatures and soaring energy costs, too many Marylanders are worried about keeping their homes safe and liveable year-round," said Maryland Department of Human Services Secretary Rafael Lopez. "We will do all we can to step up and support families who must choose between buying groceries and paying their electricity bills."
Following the 2023 legislative session, Governor Moore signed HB323 into law, which enabled more Maryland families to become automatically eligible for energy assistance. As of May 2025, the Office of Home Energy Programs received more than 156,000 applications for energy assistance for Fiscal Year 2025, approving more than 117,000 households for benefits.
For more information about Maryland's energy assistance programs, visit the Office of Home Energy Programs.
Marylanders with questions are invited to contact their local Department of Social Services.
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Original text here: https://governor.maryland.gov/news/press/pages/governor-moore-announces-increased-energy-assistance-benefits.aspx
Gov . Lujan Grisham blasts GOP passage of budget that will hurt millions - Gov. says special session may be necessary
SANTA FE, New Mexico, July 3 -- Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, D-New Mexico, posted the following news release:
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Gov. Lujan Grisham blasts GOP passage of budget that will hurt millions - Gov. says special session may be necessary
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Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham issued the following statement after final passage of the Republican budget bill in Congress:
The Republican budget bill is an abomination that abandons working families and threatens the health and well-being of New Mexicans. Their vote to slash funding for health care and child nutrition to pay for tax cuts for the ultra-rich isn't
... Show Full Article
SANTA FE, New Mexico, July 3 -- Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, D-New Mexico, posted the following news release:
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Gov. Lujan Grisham blasts GOP passage of budget that will hurt millions - Gov. says special session may be necessary
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Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham issued the following statement after final passage of the Republican budget bill in Congress:
The Republican budget bill is an abomination that abandons working families and threatens the health and well-being of New Mexicans. Their vote to slash funding for health care and child nutrition to pay for tax cuts for the ultra-rich isn'tjust bad policy--it's an outright betrayal.
Make no mistake: this Republican budget will hit New Mexico hard. From cuts to Medicaid funding that keeps our rural hospitals open, to reductions in food assistance for children, to threats against education programs that ensure our kids have a brighter future, this budget puts politics over people. It also amounts to an egregious tax hike on Americans who will pay higher prices for health care, electricity, and other services.
As governor, I will do everything in my power to mitigate harm from this budget, which President Trump and Congressional Republicans foisted on the American people without adequate hearings, debate and transparency. I'm prepared to call a special session if necessary to protect New Mexicans from their fiscal assault.
My administration is going through this budget with a fine-tooth comb, identifying every threat to our state, and we're going to fight like hell to protect what matters most.
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Original text here: https://www.governor.state.nm.us/2025/07/03/gov-lujan-grisham-blasts-gop-passage-of-budget-that-will-hurt-millions-gov-says-special-session-may-be-necessary/
Calif. Gov. Newsom Marks Historic Expansion of California's Film and Television Tax Credit Program, Announces 16 New Projects to Film in the Golden State
SACRAMENTO, California, July 3 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on July 2, 2025:
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Governor Newsom marks historic expansion of California's Film and Television Tax Credit Program, announces 16 new projects to film in the Golden State
What you need to know: Governor Newsom is more than doubling the state's Film and Television Tax Credit Program, and adding 16 new television projects that will generate $1.1 billion in new economic activity.
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BURBANK - Today, Governor Gavin Newsom joined labor representatives, entertainment leaders and state officials
... Show Full Article
SACRAMENTO, California, July 3 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on July 2, 2025:
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Governor Newsom marks historic expansion of California's Film and Television Tax Credit Program, announces 16 new projects to film in the Golden State
What you need to know: Governor Newsom is more than doubling the state's Film and Television Tax Credit Program, and adding 16 new television projects that will generate $1.1 billion in new economic activity.
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BURBANK - Today, Governor Gavin Newsom joined labor representatives, entertainment leaders and state officialsto mark the official expansion of California's Film and Television Tax Credit Program--solidifying the Golden State's status as the global epicenter of film and television production. The move more than doubles the program's annual funding--from $330 million to $750 million--and introduces key updates to keep production, below-the-line jobs, and investments rooted in California.
The Governor is also awarding 16 new television shows through the program which, taken together, are collectively anticipated to bring in $1.1 billion in total spending and nearly 6,700 cast and crew jobs across the Golden State.
California is where filmed entertainment was born, and with this expansion, we're making sure it stays here. We're not just investing in productions and soundstages--we're investing in middle-class careers, small businesses, and the communities that power this iconic industry. - Governor Gavin Newsom
Doubling down on California's creative economy
Since 2009, the tax credit has generated over $27 billion in economic activity and supported more than 209,000 well-paying jobs with health and pension benefits by awarding nearly 850 projects. In years past, for every dollar of tax credit awarded, California has seen massive returns - $24.40 in economic output, $16.14 in GDP and $8.60 in wages.
The expanded program - now one of the largest capped film incentives in the nation - maintains California's competitive edge in the creative economy while continuing to prioritize workforce diversity provisions, more funding for the Career Pathways Training Program, and the nation's first Safety on Production Pilot Program.
"This expansion is about California's long game--supporting a dynamic industry that fuels our creative economy and reflects who we are," said Dee Dee Myers, Senior Advisor to the Governor & Director of GO-Biz. "By doubling down on this commitment, we're ensuring California remains the premier place to work, create, and tell stories that reach across the world."
Why this expansion matters
Critically, this historic investment in the entertainment industry is projected to increase the number of film jobs supported by the program by approximately fifty percent.
This program has been oversubscribed year after year, with more productions applying than can be accommodated under the current cap. And in recent years, projects that were unable to secure California's tax credits and were forced to move to other locations contributed to significant economic losses for California, with an estimated 69% of rejected projects subsequently filming out-of-state.
Through the expansion of this program, local economies will now be able to keep these creative jobs and livelihoods here in California, all while investing in the future of the industry.
"This expansion is a powerful investment in California's future, strengthening the state's position as the global leader in content creation, fueling job growth and supporting thousands of small businesses that rely on a thriving production industry," said Colleen Bell, Director of the California Film Commission. "This program isn't just about keeping cameras rolling -- it's about sustaining careers, building opportunity and ensuring that the economic and cultural benefits of filmmaking stay right here in the Golden State."
16 new projects to film in California
These new projects, which have been approved across the program's last three television application windows, include nine renewals, two pilots, four new shows and one relocating show.
Altogether, these 16 projects are expected to hire 6,664 cast and crew members, as well as 59,000 background performers (measured in days worked), across 1,308 total California filming days. Highlights from the projects include:
* Nine returning TV series, including HBO Max's "The Pitt," Hulu's hit "Paradise," and CBS's "NCIS: Origins"
* Two shows that will film outside of the Los Angeles area for a total of 23 filming days
* One relocating series - Prime Video's "Mr. & Mrs. Smith"
"We are thrilled that we are going to be able to continue shooting our second season of Paradise in Los Angeles, thanks in no small part to California's film and TV tax credit," said "Paradise" Creator/Executive Producer/Showrunner Dan Fogelman and Star/Executive Sterling K. Brown. "We've been lucky enough to shoot in Los Angeles for the majority of our careers - it is home to the best crews in the world and allowing series to shoot (and remain) in L.A. provides consistent work for countless craftspeople, allowing us all to remain in town with our families and loved ones."
See the full list of productions that are part of the Film and Television Tax Credit Program here (https://film.ca.gov/film-and-television-tax-credit-program-approved-projects-list/).
What comes next
While last week's state budget bill delivered the $750 million expansion, the Governor is expected to soon sign additional legislation to modernize and further improve the program.
In the meantime, these tax credits have become refundable for all projects for the first time since the program's inception in 2009, beginning with Program 4.0 which officially commenced yesterday, July 1.
The California Film Commission will integrate the expanded funding and refundable credit mechanism into its immediately upcoming application cycles, which are scheduled for July 7-9, 2025 (television) and August 25-27, 2025 (film). Updated guidelines and resources will be provided by the Film Commission in the coming days.
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Original text here: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2025/07/02/governor-newsom-marks-historic-expansion-of-californias-film-and-television-tax-credit-program-announces-16-new-projects-to-film-in-the-golden-state/
