Overview
- At the New York Times' DealBook Summit, Halle Berry criticized Gov. Gavin Newsom for twice vetoing California’s Menopause Care Equity Act and said he should not be the next president.
- Speaking to reporters at Newark Airport, Newsom said his administration plans to include menopause-care funding in the 2026–27 state budget and that he is "reconciling" with Berry after contacting her team.
- AB 432, a bipartisan bill vetoed in October for the second year, would have required insurance coverage for evaluation and treatment of menopause and perimenopause symptoms and incentivized menopause-specific clinician education.
- Newsom’s spokesperson said he vetoed the bill because, as written, it was too far-reaching and would raise costs, while expressing admiration for Berry’s advocacy and a willingness to work with stakeholders.
- The bill remains vetoed, with details expected to be addressed in the upcoming budget process, which is anticipated to be unveiled in January.