Overview
- At the New York Times DealBook Summit, Halle Berry criticized Gavin Newsom for vetoing the Menopause Care Equity Act twice and said he "probably should not be our next president"; he spoke later and did not address her remarks onstage.
- AB 432 sought to require insurance coverage for evaluation and treatment of perimenopause and menopause symptoms, incentivize menopause-focused physician education, and advance related curriculum and research work.
- Newsom’s veto message called the bill "too far-reaching," arguing its expansive mandate and limits on utilization management could raise premiums and create implementation concerns.
- Speaking to reporters at Newark Airport, Newsom said he is "reconciling" with Berry, has spoken with her manager, and has included menopause-care funding in the 2026–27 budget, which is expected to be released on January 10.
- The high-profile dispute has broader political resonance as Newsom weighs a potential 2028 presidential run and faces scrutiny over his women’s health policy record.