Monica Davalos (she/her/ella)
Senior Policy Analyst
Monica Davalos, Senior Policy Analyst, primarily conducts research on the intersection of homelessness, housing, and health. Her work uncovers the challenges Californians face to secure housing and emphasizes the need to center compassionate, evidence-based policies and budget choices to ensure all Californians have an affordable, stable, and dignified place to call home.
Prior to joining the Budget Center in 2019, Monica was a legislative assistant at the California Medical Association and a constituent affairs representative in the Office of Governor Jerry Brown. She holds a master’s degree in public policy and administration from California State University, Sacramento, and bachelor’s degrees in economics and political science from the University of California, Davis.
As the proud daughter of Nicaraguan and Mexican immigrants, a first-generation college graduate, and a Central Valley native, Monica is driven by her personal experiences to build a just and equitable California. In her free time, you can find her on a walk, at a concert, or exploring new hobbies.
Recent posts by Monica Davalos
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Report
California Passed Prop. 1: What’s Next for Behavioral Health System Reform?
key takeaway Prop. 1, passed in March 2024, aims to strengthen California’s behavioral health system by funding mental health treatment, substance use disorder services, and supportive housing for veterans and individuals facing homelessness. Ensuring equitable access to these essential services is critical as the state works to address both housing insecurity and behavioral health needs …Ballot PropositionsHealth & Safety Net -
Report
Understanding Proposition 36
Why Prop. 36 Fails Californians: Escalating Costs, Deepening Disparities, and Ineffective SolutionsBallot PropositionsJustice System -
5Facts
The Rise of Homelessness Among California’s Older Adults
California's homeless population is aging rapidly, with adults age 50 and over making up nearly 40% of those needing shelter.Housing & Homelessness -
Data Hit
Over Half of All California Workers Are Immigrants or Children of Immigrants
Immigrants and children of immigrants made up over half of all California workers from 2021-2023, representing 1 in 3 workers in the state.Poverty & Inequality -
Q&A
Understanding Proposition 1
California voters will decide on March 5th, 2024, whether to pass Proposition 1, a two-part initiative aiming to improve access to behavioral health services. This includes funding for treatment facilities, housing support, and changes to the Mental Health Services Act.Ballot PropositionsHealth & Safety NetHousing & Homelessness