In Final Action : Attacks on Health Clinics Terrorism

The Senate approved unanimously and sent to the governor legislation that would define as terrorism the bombing or burning of health clinics and make such a crime punishable by a prison term of as much as seven years and a fine of $10,000. The bill, supported by the California Abortion Rights League, would also consider as acts of terrorism bombing places of worship or the offices of organizations that counsel for or against abortion. The measure by Sen. Diane Watson (D-Los Angeles) would give the governor authority to offer a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of any person found guilty of such crimes. Six firebombings of abortion clinics have occurred in California in the last two years--two in San Diego, two in Humboldt County, one in Orange County and one in Los Angeles.