Golden State Today

California Attorney General Rob Bonta has announced a stipulated judgment with the City of Beverly Hills over allegations that it violated the California Constitution and the Reproductive Privacy Act. This resolution addresses claims that Beverly Hills officials prevented DuPont Clinic, an abortion provider from Washington, D.C., from opening a clinic in the city.

The judgment mandates Beverly Hills to implement comprehensive injunctive measures, including training about state and federal protections for reproductive healthcare clinics. The city is also required to report its compliance with these measures to the Attorney General's office.

"At a time when access to abortion care is under attack across this nation, it is now more critical than ever to double down on our commitment to protect those seeking reproductive healthcare in our state," stated Attorney General Bonta. He expressed concern over actions taken by Beverly Hills officials which he likened to those in "extremist red states."

In September 2022, DuPont Clinic leased a medical suite in Beverly Hills and spent $2.5 million on renovations. However, they faced opposition from anti-abortion protestors and delays in obtaining necessary permits due to pressure exerted by city officials. The Department of Justice found that these actions led to the termination of DuPont's lease.

City leaders inaccurately cited security threats as reasons against the clinic's opening, despite lacking evidence of such threats. They suggested potential violent protests and other dangers without substantiation.

The stipulated judgment requires Beverly Hills to develop training materials within 90 days and conduct comprehensive employee training within 150 days after court approval. Additionally, a Reproductive Compliance Officer will be appointed, and annual reports on compliance will be submitted for five years.

This agreement serves as both a corrective measure for Beverly Hills and a benchmark for other local governments regarding reproductive healthcare laws in California.