SACRAMENTO – Susan G. Komen®, the world’s leading breast cancer organization, today issued the following statement on the veto of diagnostic and supplemental imaging legislation (SB 257) by Governor Gavin Newsom. The bipartisan legislation was passed by the California General Assembly and Senate without a single opposing vote.
“For the second year in a row, Gov. Newsom vetoed legislation that would have eliminated barriers to diagnostic and supplemental breast imaging for more than 1 million Californians. Early detection of breast cancer is not possible without the medically necessary diagnostic follow-up or additional supplemental imaging required to rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy, however these critical tests can be expensive and unfortunately many people forego them due to cost. Komen is extremely disappointed that Gov. Newsom once again had the opportunity to make health care more affordable and accessible in California and chose not to,” said Molly Guthrie, Vice President of Policy and Advocacy at Susan G. Komen.
In his veto message, Gov. Newsom said the legislation would result in unknown costs to health plans passed on to consumers through premiums. The California Health Benefits Review Program noted that there would be a slight increase of 0.0293% in annual expenditures.
“This life-saving legislation championed by Sen. Anthony J. Portantino (D-Burbank) would have built upon recent success across the country, enabling people in 20 states; including nearby Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon and Washington, to receive a timelier breast cancer diagnosis before their cancer had spread to other parts of the body and when treatment options are better,” Guthrie said. “Komen’s Center for Public Policy will continue to advocate for policies that ensure fair and equitable access to high-quality breast care for all Californians, no matter their age, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, cancer stage or socio-economic status.”
More information about the legislation can be found here.
