California Strengthens State Wall Around Abortion Rights

California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed legislation Tuesday intended to expand the state’s reputation as a reproductive sanctuary state.

One of the new laws (S.B. 204) increases state funding for abortions, including money to support those from outside California who travel to seek the medication or surgical procedures. Another (A.B. 1242) prohibits law enforcement from knowingly arresting someone for performing, aiding, or obtaining an abortion.

Even before the bills became law, Newsom (D) was advertising his state’s position as a counterweight to others that have chosen to ban abortion. His political committee bought billboards in Indiana, Mississippi, ...