Quick Hit:

California Governor Gavin Newsom is set to propose a bill that would expedite the licensing process for Arizona abortion providers to perform procedures in California. Newsom has also pledged $200 million in taxpayer funds to be spent on assisting abortion seekers in transportation to California, in response to the Arizona Supreme Court's decision to uphold an 1864 ban on abortion.

Key Details:

• Newsom's proposal is a direct response to the Arizona Supreme Court's decision to uphold an 1864 ban on abortion.
• The governor hopes to have the law in place by May 1st, with the aim of expediting the licensing process for Arizona abortion providers to perform procedures in California.
• Newsom has also pledged an additional $200 million towards performing abortions, including security at clinics, training for new providers, and assistance for people who need to travel into the state for their appointments.

Diving Deeper:

Newsom's proposed legislation comes as California anticipates an influx of patients from Arizona seeking abortion services. The proposed bill, which Newsom plans to present as an emergency measure this week with the California Legislative Women's Caucus, could see Arizona providers approved in California in as little as five to ten days.

The move follows the U.S. Supreme Court's decision in 2022 to overturn the national right to abortions. Since then, California's Legislature has passed numerous laws aimed at expanding access to abortions, including enhanced privacy and legal protections for both patients and doctors, and more robust insurance coverage for the procedure.

In addition to the proposed legislation, Newsom has pledged an additional $200 million towards reproductive health care. These funds will be allocated towards security at clinics and assistance for people who need to travel for their appointments.