Legislative Analyst's Office Analysis of the 2003-04 Budget Bill

Realignment

Realignment Proposal Affects Health and Social Services Programs

The centerpiece of the administration's spending plan is a "realignment" of 12 percent of state General Fund program obligations, including a number of health and social services programs. Given the size and diversity of California, we think that realignment of some state programs could improve program outcomes. For this reason, we think that realignment merits consideration by the Legislature. To assist the Legislature in its review, we identify factors for the Legislature to weigh in considering which programs would benefit from realignment. Using these factors, we identify other programs meriting consideration.

The Governor's realignment proposal, and our discussion of alternative programs for realignment, pertains to the following departments within the Health and Human Services Agency:

• Aging
• Alcohol and Drug Programs
• Health Services
• Mental Health
• Social Services

Our analysis of the Governor's proposal can be found in "Part V" of The 2003-04 Budget: Perspectives and Issues.