California Gov. Gavin Newsom has vetoed a bill for the second consecutive year that would have mandated high schools to provide free condoms to students. Despite strong support from Democratic lawmakers, Newsom cited the ongoing costs as a primary concern, stating: “It is important to remain disciplined when considering bills with significant fiscal implications.” The bill aimed to address rising sexually transmitted infections, particularly among those under 25, but faced opposition from conservative groups. State Senator Caroline Menjivar, the bill’s author, argued that the costs of inaction are greater than the proposed $4m implementation cost. She emphasized: “California spends millions on reactive measures after an individual obtains an STI versus being preventative.” |
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