There are 50,000 humanitarian reasons for the state to follow through on its funding commitment. There is also a powerful economic incentive.

Monthly tax revenues came in billions of dollars below forecasts this spring, threatening budget cuts amid fears of a recession.

The city’s shifting demographics, a continuing affordable housing shortage, endemic homelessness, a looming budget deficit and the reality of five council elections – plus another mayoral ballot – in just two years create additional uncertainties.

After years of record California budget surpluses, Gov. Newsom outlined a plan to deal with a deficit he projects at $22.5 billion and said he can keep his big promises despite the shortfalls.

The California Legislature reconvenes with record diversity, but with several key questions and many significant challenges. A soaring homeless population. A bitter battle with the oil industry over gasoline prices.