Governor Gavin Newsome | Official website
Governor Gavin Newsom has criticized U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for his request to the FDA for a comprehensive review of mifepristone, an abortion medication approved by the FDA since 2000. Newsom argues that this request is not based on new scientific evidence but rather on political motives from a conservative group known as the Ethics & Public Policy Center.
“This is yet another attack on women’s reproductive freedom and scientifically-reviewed health care from an HHS Secretary who just yesterday said in a Senate hearing: ‘I don’t think people should be taking medical advice from me.’ California will continue to protect every person’s right to make their own medical decisions and help ensure that Mifepristone is available to those who need it,” stated Governor Newsom.
In response to challenges against abortion access, California has taken several steps under Newsom's leadership to safeguard reproductive rights, especially following the Dobbs decision. The state plans to expand CalRx's authority to purchase brand-name drugs, ensuring access amidst potential disruptions or politically motivated restrictions.
Governor Newsom has also signed SB 233, allowing Arizona abortion providers temporary permission to offer services in California due to restrictive laws in Arizona. Additionally, he led efforts with the Reproductive Freedom Alliance, filing a brief with the U.S. Supreme Court supporting the FDA's approval of mifepristone.
Over recent years, various initiatives have been undertaken by Newsom's administration aimed at reinforcing reproductive healthcare services in California. These include creating emergency stockpiles of medications like Misoprostol and establishing coalitions with other states' governors for defending access to reproductive healthcare.
The governor has been active in ensuring that California remains a safe haven for reproductive rights through legislative actions and investments totaling over $200 million dedicated towards maintaining and enhancing these services within the state.
Alerts Sign-up