In the framework of the Roe v. Wade commemoration, Governor Gavin Newsom and his wife, Jennifer, warned that the state of California will not take a step backwards in terms of reproductive health, an action that guarantees, among other aspects, the freedom for women or pregnant women to have a legal and safe abortion, if they wish to do so.
"Today we commemorate the 49th anniversary of Roe v. Wade, the landmark Supreme Court case establishing a woman's constitutional right to safe and legal abortion. Nearly half a century later, we know without question that limiting access to reproductive health care, including abortion, is a fundamental violation of individual liberty. The simple fact remains: America cannot achieve true equality if women do not have control over their own bodies," he said.
In that regard, she noted that at a time when some in the nation are deliberately choosing to attack women's reproductive rights, "California will continue to be a beacon of light: expanding access to abortion and reproductive care, and ensuring that our state is a place where people receive critical reproductive care - health care services quickly and safely."
The governor and his wife joined elected officials and activists during a Planned Parenthood virtual event to commemorate the organization's 49th anniversary.
In his speech, the governor recalled that Roe v. Wade "did not mark the beginning of women having abortions. It marked the end of women dying from abortions. So we are here today to say that we will not go back."
He also highlighted that, in this year's budget, access to essential services was improved, including support for reproductive health providers and workers, and the elimination of billing requirements.
The governor's California plan eliminates Medi-Cal requirements for in-person follow-up visits and ultrasounds if they are not medically necessary, making it easier to access reproductive care.
In addition, Blueprint offers grants and loan repayments to health care providers who commit to providing reproductive health care services and funding for facilities. The Blueprint includes funds to subsidize the cost of abortion care and to make human papillomavirus vaccines a covered benefit.
"Today we tell a story of steadfast commitment to reproductive rights and abortion access. Just as importantly, we will continue to share California's story so that others can learn from it and hopefully follow our example."
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