Families And State Officials Speak Out About Potential IHSS Cuts

Governor Gavin Newsom is facing criticism after unveiling a proposal to help close California’s $12 billion budget gap by cutting funding to vital social programs, including Medi-Cal and In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS). Among the most vocal opponents is Assemblyman Jeff Gonzalez, who joined concerned families and caregivers on the steps of the State Capitol today to protest the proposed cuts. Gonzalez, a father of a medically vulnerable child, issued a blunt warning: “These cuts will kill people.”

The governor’s plan would reduce IHSS caregiver hours from a current maximum of 70 hours per week down to 50, including a cap on overtime. “We think 50 hours is reasonable,” Newsom said. But families who rely on IHSS argue otherwise.

“Fifty hours is not nearly enough,” said Renee Griffin, mother of 34-year-old Tori, who has Down syndrome and autism. Renee not only provides full-time care for her daughter but also works to help her live independently. Tori volunteers at a local food bank and recently earned her black belt in karate.

“These services allow individuals like Tori to contribute to their communities and avoid institutional care,” Renee explained. “When family members are the caregivers, it actually saves taxpayer dollars compared to group homes funded by the state.”

Griffin emphasized that while individuals with disabilities can thrive with the right support, they will always need consistent care. “We’ve made so much progress,” she said, “but these cuts could take us decades backward.”

Governor Newsom attributes the financial strain to economic uncertainty, which he links to lingering effects of the Trump-era tariffs. Still, many advocates are urging the governor and state lawmakers to reconsider what they see as harmful and short-sighted cuts.

“This isn’t just about numbers on a spreadsheet,” Gonzalez said. “It’s about people’s lives.”

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