Addressing Chronic Vacancies in Prison Mental Health Care

Feb 23, 2026 - For example, CDCR psychologists, according to the state Auditor, earn between $56 and $85 per hour —well above the average hourly rate paid in other states. According to 2023 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, California is the highest paying state for psychologists with the average hourly wage at $64 per hour, whereas psychologists nationwide earned a median of $53 per hour (21  percent less).
https://lao.ca.gov/Publications/Report/5134

The 2026-27 Budget: California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation

Feb 23, 2026 - Adding More Licensing Exemptions for Those Who Work at Prisons. Currently, providers with out ‑of ‑state licenses are required to obtain a California license to work in CDCR, though some may use their out ‑of ‑state license on a temporary basis.
https://lao.ca.gov/Publications/Report/5137

The 2026-27 Budget: Department of Justice

Feb 11, 2026 - These options would also address the long-term solvency of the DROS Special Account and other firearm and ammunition-related special funds. Direct DOJ Provide a Framework for Determining What Workload Should Be Funded by Fee Revenues.
https://lao.ca.gov/Publications/Report/5118

The 2026-27 Budget: Estimated State Savings From Proposition 47

Feb 23, 2026 - Figure 1 Administration Projects Decrease in Proposition 47 Savings Due to Proposition 36 2023 ‑24
https://lao.ca.gov/Publications/Report/5108