SACRAMENTO, Calif. — California Gov. Gavin Newsom on Thursday signed into law key elements of a new $307.9-billion state budget, a spending plan centered on gas refunds for 17.5 million taxpayers to soften the sting of high fuel prices and the cost of living.
The refunds, varying from as little as $200 for individuals up to $1,050 for couples with children, are the hallmark of the state’s effort to return a portion of an anticipated $101.4-billion surplus back to Californians. The governor and lawmakers also invested heavily in K-12 public education, directed billions of dollars to secure enough power to keep the lights on during heat waves and earmarked $47 billion for infrastructure projects over the next three years.
“This budget invests in our core values at a pivotal moment, safeguarding women’s right to choose, expanding health care access to all and supporting the most vulnerable among us while shoring up our future with funds to combat the climate crisis, bolster our energy grid, transform our schools and protect communities,” Newsom said in a statement.
