Gavin Christopher Newsom (born October 10, 1967) is an American politician and businessman who is the 40th governor of California, serving since January 2019. A member of the Democratic Party, he previously served as the 49th lieutenant governor of California from 2011 to 2019 and as the 42nd mayor of San Francisco from 2004 to 2011.
With budget negotiations set to heat up in the coming weeks, advocates for sexual health services are seeking millions of dollars from California and San Francisco officials this spring.
Their demands come as both the city and state are currently flush with cash as the economy continues to improve as the COVID pandemic ebbs.There are warnings, though, that the financial picture will not be so rosy in coming years.
Nevertheless, advocates and providers of care and prevention for HIV and sexually transmitted infections, along with substance-use treatment, are hopeful of seeing their budget asks be funded this year."STI rates have reached historic highs and continue to climb in California and across the country.
The COVID-19 pandemic has only reminded us that we must be vigilant and responsive when it comes to public health," stated Amy Moy, chief external affairs officer of Essential Access Health. "Although the state has recently increased investments in STI prevention activities, additional resources are needed to ensure access to STI services for youth, and low-income, uninsured, LGBTQ+ Californians who face disproportionately high rates as a result of structural and systemic inequities."State leaders are expecting a $68 billion surplus in the budget this year, leading to suggestions residents could see $200 rebate checks.