Hollywood icon Halle Berry has called out California Governor Gavin Newsom for failing to back critical women’s health legislation, putting a spotlight on a heated policy debate.
Halle Berry recently spoke to The Cut about her frustration with Newsom, noting she has not heard from him despite his public statements about resolving their differences. Newsom had previously vetoed a bill akin to the Menopause Care Equity Act, which aimed to mandate insurance coverage for essential menopause and perimenopause treatments and require continuing education for doctors on the subject. A spokesperson for Newsom cited concerns over potential increases in healthcare costs as the reason for the veto, while also affirming the governor’s intent to address menopause care through other means.
According to Variety, the issue gained further attention when Berry criticized Newsom at the New York Times DealBook Summit, questioning his commitment to women’s issues. Newsom responded to TMZ, stating that efforts were underway to reconcile the disagreement. His office later elaborated that a proposal to support menopause care via the state budget was in the works, as noted in his veto message on AB 432.
The public spat has ignited a broader conversation about prioritizing women’s health in policy-making. Critics argue that Newsom’s veto reflects a troubling disregard for the unique challenges women face during midlife, especially when healthcare costs are already a burden for many families.
Berry didn’t hold back, telling The Cut, “It’s disturbing when people say they’re going to do things and then they don’t.” Her words cut to the core of a larger frustration—promises from leaders that fail to materialize leave vulnerable groups waiting for solutions.
She went further, emphasizing the stakes: “If he is going to run to be our next president, he can’t sleep on women. Wake up, Gavin.” This isn’t just a personal jab; it’s a call to accountability for half the population often sidelined in political priorities.
Newsom’s camp insists he’s on the same page as Berry, with a spokesperson claiming admiration for her advocacy and a shared goal of expanding access to care. Yet, the veto justification—avoiding higher healthcare costs—feels like a convenient sidestep to many who see women’s health as non-negotiable. If costs are the issue, why not rework the bill instead of scrapping it?
The governor’s office pointed to a budget proposal as evidence of commitment, but details remain vague. For those struggling with menopausal symptoms, abstract promises don’t pay for treatments or ease the daily grind. Action, not words, is the currency that counts.
Berry’s critique isn’t just about one bill; it’s about a systemic oversight. When women leave the workforce due to untreated symptoms, as she’s highlighted, the ripple effect hits families, businesses, and the economy. Ignoring this isn’t just shortsighted—it’s economically reckless.
This clash underscores a deeper divide over how health policy should balance cost and care. While no one disputes the need for fiscal responsibility, sidelining a demographic’s specific needs under the guise of “protecting wallets” risks alienating a huge voting bloc. Women’s health isn’t a niche issue; it’s a foundational one.
Newsom’s veto rationale might resonate with those wary of rising premiums, but it misses the mark on urgency. If a medical condition disrupted men’s lives at the same scale, would the response be so tepid? The double standard is hard to ignore.
Berry’s frustration mirrors a growing sentiment that policy often lags behind real-world struggles. Her call for both men and women to join the fight for better menopause care isn’t just activism—it’s a demand for fairness. Leaders can’t afford to tune out.
The governor may admire Berry’s passion, but admiration doesn’t pass legislation. If Newsom is serious about reconciliation, a clear timeline and concrete steps for his budget proposal would go a long way. Otherwise, it’s just more noise in a crowded political arena.
This isn’t about picking sides; it’s about results. Women navigating perimenopause and menopause deserve more than platitudes—they need policies that reflect their reality. Newsom has a chance to lead here, but the clock is ticking. Berry’s voice adds weight to an issue too often dismissed as a private burden. Her public challenge to Newsom isn’t just a headline; it’s a reminder that health equity matters to everyone. Let’s hope Sacramento is listening.