More than one in three Californians live in or near poverty, and the longstanding divide between rich and poor poses a major challenge for our state and nation. PPIC builds understanding of what economic disparities mean for households and communities, while highlighting policies that can broaden opportunity and increase well-being.
Publication
Income Inequality and Economic Opportunity in California
The pandemic threatens to widen the divide between rich and poor, but policy interventions can increase economic well-being and help create an equitable recovery. Learn More
Event
Health Coverage and Care for Undocumented Immigrants in California
June 24 2021
COVID-19 has revealed how gaps in health care coverage among immigrants can put the health of entire communities at risk. Drawing from a new report on the ways undocumented Californians connect with the health care system, PPIC researcher Paulette Cha will discuss key takeaways that can inform policy discussions about providing affordable health insurance for all.
Event
California’s Safety Net in Recession and Recovery
June 16 2021
California’s low-wage workers were hit hard by the COVID-19 shutdown and may need the social safety net for a longer period than they did after past downturns. What can state policymakers learn from recent experience that can help them leverage safety net resources to promote an equitable recovery, now and in the future?
Blog Post
How Are Unemployed Californians Faring on the Road to Recovery?
June 10 2021
As California prepares to reopen, unemployment has declined substantially from its pandemic peak. Still, lower-income workers, workers of color, and the youngest workers are far more likely than others to be unemployed.
Publication
California’s Safety Net in Recession and Recovery
June 3 2021
As California emerges from the COVID-19 shutdown, the social safety net can play a key role in facilitating an equitable recovery. Evidence from the last recession and recovery shows that safety net programs do grow in response to increased need. But the state can take additional steps to deliver benefits more effectively and equitably.
Blog Post
Video: Californians and Their Government
June 3 2021
PPIC’s Dean Bonner and Mark Baldassare discuss new statewide survey findings on Governor Newsom’s job approval, the gubernatorial recall effort, Californians’ economic outlook, and other topics.