This is an LA Times Studios podcast.

Hi, I'm Kyra Jondu at LA Times Studios.

Hi, I'm Kyra Jondu at LA Times Studios.

Let's get into today's top headlines from the Los Angeles Times.

Terran Luna reports that California's $9.5 billion health care program for undocumented

immigrants is already $3 billion over budget, forcing lawmakers to consider cuts.

Governor Gavin Newsom championed the program as a first-in-the-nation achievement.

But rising costs and a looming federal funding cut are putting pressure on the state's finances.

Republicans argue the state can't afford to cover undocumented residents,

while Democrats warned that cutting coverage could strain the entire health care system.

Meanwhile, Trump's proposed Medicaid cut could further squeeze a budget,

forcing difficult choices on coverage for both undocumented and legal residents.

Mexico just took a bold step to protect its corn.

Kate Lithgow reports that a new constitutional amendment

bans genetically modified corn seeds

aiming to preserve Mexico's heirloom varieties and cultural identity.

The move comes as tensions with the U.S. rise,

with President Trump pushing tariffs and military threats.

The U.S. exports $5 billion of GMO corn to Mexico every

year. But Mexican officials warn that cross-pollination is threatening native crops, and some claim

GMO corn is less nutritious. American farmers argue their corn is safe and essential, and a recent trade ruling sided with them.

This new ban could further strain U.S.-Mexico trade relations.

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