This year, Gov. Gavin Newsom affirmed abortion access, calling California "a proud reproductive freedom state" and criticizing Republicans across the country for trying to take away families' rights. He signed legislation mandating that insurance companies cover in vitro fertilization.
He supported restricting students' cellphone use in schools and signed a nation-leading ban on food dye in school snacks and drinks. And he endorsed a bill allowing businesses to operate Amsterdam-style cannabis cafés. Still, in a heated election cycle with Vice President Kamala Harris, a Californian, on the presidential ticket, the Democratic governor was noticeably reluctant to impose additional industry regulations.
Newsom vetoed several health and safety bills, frequently citing cost concerns. But many of these proposals risked perpetuating California stereotypes trumpeted by presidential nominee Donald Trump and other Republicans. The governor rejected gas stove warning labels, as well as speeding alerts for new cars, even drawing tepid praise on social media from GOP Assembly leader James Gallagher, who credited Newsom for vetoing "some pretty bad/stupid bills.
" Most of the laws Newsom approved take effect Jan. 1, 2025, while some have longer phase-in times. Here are the governor's actions on key health bills: Health care Group health care service plans and disability insurance must cover infertility and fertility services under SB 729, including for LGBTQ+ people, generally starting in.
