Every year, California’s governor and Legislature make budget decisions that shape funding for education, health care, housing, child care, transportation, climate programs, and many other public services. These decisions affect millions of Californians and reflect the state’s priorities and values.
This downloadable guide explains how the California state budget process works — from the governor’s January budget proposal through the May Revision, legislative negotiations, and final budget adoption. Whether you’re new to state budgeting or looking for a helpful reference, this resource provides an overview of the annual budget cycle and the opportunities for public participation throughout the year.
This guide includes:
- An overview of California’s annual state budget process
- The roles of the governor, Legislature, and other key budget institutions
- Important constitutional deadlines and budget milestones
- A visual timeline of the state budget cycle
- Opportunities for Californians to participate in budget decisions
Want to Better Understand
the State Budget?
The Budget Center’s essential resources for understanding and navigating the California state budget — all in one place.
