Latest California Healthline Stories
Antiabortion Groups Oppose FDA Nomination
Groups that oppose abortion rights cite FDA’s possible approval of nonprescription sales of an emergency contraceptive as reason for President Bush to withdraw the nomination of acting FDA Commissioner Andrew von Eschenbach. AP/Houston Chronicle.
City Endorses Single-Payer Health Plan
The Salinas City Council voted to support state legislation to create a single-payer health care plan, joining at least three other cities and three counties in voicing support for the measure. Monterey County Herald, Orange County Register.
Schwarzenegger Criticized for Changing Positions
Republicans and Democrats are accusing Gov. Schwarzenegger of changing his views health care, prescription drugs and other issues to gain political advantage. Meanwhile, an opinion piece criticizes the governor’s proposed prescription drug discount program. San Francisco Chronicle, San Francisco Examiner.
‘Ballot-Box Budgeting’ Wasteful, Editorial States
Funding for programs, such as those that would be created by the tobacco tax measure on November’s ballot, should be allocated by the Legislature rather than by ballot measures, according to an editorial. Orange County Register.
Mental Health Funds Exceed Estimates
Revenues from a state tax to fund mental health services are expected to be 57% greater than originally projected, but counties currently lack the mental health system infrastructure to spend the money. Capitol Weekly.
Singapore Draws Stem Cell Researchers
Liberal laws and government financing in Singapore are drawing top stem cell researchers, including scientists working in California and some considering moves to the state. New York Times.
Angelides Budget Proposal Includes Health Insurance Plan
Phil Angelides, the Democratic candidate for governor, called for large employers to provide health insurance for workers and proposed tax cuts for middle-class residents. Los Angeles Times et al.