In a blow to efforts to promote safe sex among California's youth, Governor Gavin Newsom rejected Senate Bill 541 on Sunday, a bill that would have required all public high schools in the state to make free condoms available to students. Newsom, a Democrat, cited the state's budget deficit of over $30 billion as the main reason for his veto.

The bill, introduced by State Senator Caroline Menjivar, aimed to address the issues of unintended teen pregnancies and the spread of sexually transmitted infections among high school students. It would have required public schools with grades nine through 12 to provide free condoms to all students, while also allowing schools with grades seven through 12 to include condoms as part of educational or public health programs. Additionally, it would have made it illegal for retailers to deny the sale of condoms to youth.

Menjivar argued that the bill would empower sexually active youth to protect themselves and their partners from sexually transmitted infections, while also removing potential barriers and reducing the stigma surrounding safe sex practices. However, conservative groups voiced opposition, claiming that the bill would trivialize the importance of monogamous relationships and promote casual sex among teenagers.

Governor Newsom acknowledged the importance of programs increasing access to condoms in promoting adolescent sexual health but ultimately decided against signing the bill due to its significant fiscal implications. He maintained that bills with such financial burdens should be carefully considered, especially in light of the state's economic risks and revenue uncertainty. Newsom highlighted that the cumulative costs of various measures passed by lawmakers this year would add a staggering $19 billion to the state budget.

The decision comes as a disappointment to advocates who argue that providing free condoms in schools is a crucial step in addressing the high rate of teenage pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections in California. Despite the setback, discussions on the importance of sexual education and access to contraceptives are expected to continue as lawmakers seek alternative ways to promote safe sex among teenagers.

In a separate move aimed at combating climate change, Newsom signed a law on the same day that will require all new school buses purchased or contracted by school districts in California to be zero-emission starting in 2035. This legislation aligns with the state's plan to phase out the use of fossil fuels, following the ban on the sale of new gas-powered cars in California by the same year. The move is seen as a significant step towards reducing carbon emissions and improving air quality in the state, particularly around school campuses.