California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state budget emergency on Thursday.
The budget emergency cites California's $54.3 billion budget deficit, and it would clear the way for more funding to fight the coronavirus pandemic, according to a press release from his office.
The funds are to help ensure the availability of personal protective equipment, medical equipment and other expenditures necessary to support a recent spike in COVID-19 cases and the potential for a hospital surge.
The funds also will help provide the necessary services to vulnerable populations, the governor said.
As of Thursday, the state reported 195,571 coronavirus cases and 5,733 deaths.
Newsom's proclamation allows state lawmakers to pass legislation that would draw money from the state's rainy day fund.
