SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Governor Gavin Newsom wants to make abortion services easier for women and providers, but some Californians say it's time to make the state pro-life.
The move comes after Arizona's Supreme Court decided to uphold an 1864 ban on abortion.
"We just really want women to know that they have options, all kinds of options," said Brooke Nave, executive director of PCS Health.
As the executive director of PCS Health in Placerville, it's important for Nave to have her organization be a part of the March for Life Rally.
"We're just supporting the whole movement here, trying to get our name out there to offer resources," she said.
On Monday, thousands of people showed up to the Capitol to attend a rally. It came after Gov. Gavin Newsom doubled down on his support of providers and women seeking abortion services. The governor said there will be legislation to make it easier for Arizona women to get an abortion in California.
"It's already impacting the state. We've had a 17% increase of people accessing, reproductive care in the state of California. It's already placed a burden on our health care system," Newsom said.
Newsom adds there will be a proposal to offer abortion providers an easier way to get licensed in the state.
"Create a licensing regime through the California Medical Board itself, that allows these temporary licenses until the voters ultimately in Arizona can overturn, which I imagine they will," he added.
Anti-abortion advocates, however, say they're fighting back.
"We're working with legislators in states across the country with our attorneys testifying, to support pushing the envelope further to protect the pre-born," said Brad Dacus, with the Pacific Justice Institute.
For Nave, she says her organization will remain a resource for all women.
"Regardless of the laws, the truth is, it's their choice, a woman's choice, whether it's legal or not in their state," said Nave.
The governor is expected to meet with lawmakers from the Women's Caucus sometime this week to discuss the new legislation. Senator Angelique Ashby (D-Sacramento) told ABC10 in a statement:
“Arizona has made a decision but some high level elected officials in that state are asking for help from places like California. As I understand the bill today, it would allow doctors currently practicing in Arizona to expedite being licensed in California. If doing so helps provide doctors with safety and women with bodily autonomy, then it is well worth our time and effort.”
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