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New California Law Waives Many Abortion Fees
A Planned Parenthood center in St. Louis.
(
Michael Thomas
/
Getty Images
)
A new state law will remove many fees on abortion procedures.
SB 245, signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom this week, prohibits health insurers licensed in California from collecting co-payments, deductibles, or other similar charges for any abortion-related services.
The law also applies to insured patients who are not California residents.
The bill's author, State Sen. Lena Gonzalez (D-Long Beach), said as Oklahoma, Texas and other states seek to restrict abortions, she expects many people will come to California for the procedure, especially if the U.S. Supreme Court overturns Roe V. Wade.
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California could become "a reproductive freedom state," she said, "truly providing a sort of a refuge for pregnant people across the country."
If California sees a massive influx of people from out of state seeking abortion services, Gonzalez said she plans to seek federal funding to expand capacity in the state's health care system.
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But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
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