But economic relief from the federal government only delays cuts for one more year

The state budget agreement finally reached in February could result in deep financial cuts in public health care programs at a time when California has more than 7 million uninsured people. And the number of uninsured continues to rise as jobs are cut across the state, leaving people with no health insurance.

State lawmakers had to close a $42 billion gap in the 2009-10 budget with a variety of tax increases, borrowing, budget cuts and moving monies around from one account to another.

Even though the governor signed the budget, it’s still not final. Some of the budget changes have to be approved by voters in a special May 19 election, sparking a campaign battle between legislators and the programs facing steep funding cuts. If voters reject the ballot measures, then state legislators will be forced right back to the drawing board.

But the federal economic stimulus might be the state’s financial lifeboat.

Stimulus should pass but will good will extend to comprehensive health insurance reform?

WASHINGTON, DC – With Democrats in control of Congress and the White House for the first time since 1994, the nation’s capital is again edging toward a major effort to overhaul the nation’s health care system.

While a candidate, President Barack Obama promised that by the end of his first term he would guarantee coverage for the 47 million Americans without health insurance, emphasize preventive health measures and promised all Americans high-quality affordable health care.