San Mateo Co. Supervisors Pledge To Protect Reproductive Rights

SAN MATEO COUNTY, CA — The San Mateo County Board of Supervisors adopted a resolution Tuesday pledging the "unwavering support" of the county to protect reproductive rights.

The resolution is the first part of the county's efforts intended to support access to reproductive care, including providing additional financial support for Planned Parenthood clinics in San Mateo County and establishing a buffer zone at the Planned Parenthood in unincorporated Redwood City.

The resolution directed county staff to develop an action plan within four weeks on a full list of efforts.

The ordinance was introduced by the board after a leaked draft of a Supreme Court majority opinion that would overturn Roe v. Wade — the 1973 ruling that legalized abortion in all 50 states — was published by Politico and later confirmed to be authentic by the court.

“The recently leaked draft U.S. Supreme Court opinion indicates that the Court will destroy the protection and privacy rights given to women for nearly 50 years under Roe v. Wade,” said Supervisor Dave Pine, a co-sponsor of the resolution. “If true, half of the states will turn back the clock on protections for women by banning abortion and force untold numbers to seek care in states like California and counties like San Mateo County.”

The San Mateo City Council approved a buffer zone around the city's Planned Parenthood clinic on Monday to prevent "harassing, intimidating or obstructing" patients seeking care.

San Mateo County is also considering a buffer zone around the Planned Parenthood location in unincorporated Redwood City after the Redwood City council approved sending a letter asking for the county to take action.

Similar measures have been passed in San Francisco and Walnut Creek.

“San Mateo County will protect access to reproductive care and offer support to women seeking care,” said Supervisor Warren Slocum, the other co-sponsor. “Our County will be a safe place where women can access reproductive care without fear of criminal sanctions or harassment.”

Click here to read the resolution.