California faces an $18 billion budget gap despite AI tax windfall California faces an $18 billion budget gap despite AI tax windfalls

California faces a looming $18 billion budget gap, even as AI-powered tax gains mask deeper budget pressures. The impartial one Legislative Analyst’s Office warns that AI-driven tax windfalls could mask serious fiscal risks. In its November 2025 budget outlook, the agency said the state’s economy remains under pressure and recent revenue strength may not last. […]