Lung Health News, Spring / Summer 2003
With the state of California looking for a few extra billion dollars to help balance its budget, healthcare programs in California will take a hit, making it harder for people with chronic illnesses like lung disease.
The state budget proposes cuts to the Medi-Cal program, which helps many Californians with chronic illness. The budget would shift some of the fiscal responsibility to counties, which are already facing budget shortfalls. About 500,000 people would become ineligible for Medi-Cal.
The American Lung Association of California is supporting new fees, including fees on stationary air pollution sources, to help fill the public health gap and protect environmental health programs.
