In the wake of President-elect Donald Trump’s “Make America Healthy Again” campaign, California is gearing up for potential policy shifts as the nation’s most populous state and largest health care market. With Democrats holding supermajorities in both houses of the California Legislature, a number of new laws are set to take effect this year that will impact various aspects of health care in the state.
While the focus of the nation was on the presidential election, California legislators and Governor Gavin Newsom were busy passing laws that will erase medical debt from credit reports, allow for inspections of immigrant detention centers, and mandate insurance coverage for fertility services like in vitro fertilization. Despite some ambitious health care proposals being shot down by Newsom, the state saw a relatively quiet year in terms of health policy, with attention shifting to the upcoming year and potential federal changes.
As advocates and legislators look ahead to 2025, they are preparing to defend progressive California policies such as expansive abortion access and health coverage for immigrants without authorization. The impact of federal budget changes and potential shifts in health care policy under the new administration are looming large over their work.
Here are some of the key new health care laws Californians should be aware of:
Medical Debt
California has become the eighth state to prohibit medical debt from affecting patients’ credit reports or scores. SB 1061 prevents health care providers and debt collectors from reporting unpaid medical bills to credit bureaus, a practice that can hinder patients’ financial prospects. Critics of the law argue that it is an overreach, but supporters say it removes a barrier to accessing critical care.
Psychiatric Hospital Stays for Violent Offenders
Violent offenders with severe mental illness can now be held longer after being released from a state mental hospital. The bill, AB 2475, extends the coordination period between state officials and law enforcement to ensure proper housing and treatment for parolees, addressing concerns raised after a high-profile case in San Francisco.
Cosmetics and ‘Forever Chemicals’
California has banned PFAS chemicals in cosmetics, becoming the first state to do so. These chemicals, known as “forever chemicals,” have been linked to various health issues and have been found in everyday products. Industry representatives argue for their safe use, but the ban aims to protect consumers from potential harm.
Immigration Detention Facilities
In response to health and safety concerns at immigrant detention centers, California legislators have granted local health officials the authority to inspect these facilities. SB 1132 allows for evaluations of compliance with public health regulations, despite legal challenges from private contractors operating the facilities.
Doctors vs. Insurance Companies Using AI
A new law, SB 1120, ensures that decisions about treatment necessity must be made by licensed health care providers rather than AI algorithms used by insurance companies. This aims to prevent denials of necessary care based on automated assessments.
Sick Leave and Protected Time Off
Two new laws expand the circumstances under which California workers can use sick days and other leave. SB 1105 allows farmworkers to take paid sick leave for weather emergencies, while AB 2499 extends protections for employees dealing with domestic violence.
Prescription Labels for the Visually Impaired
Pharmacies in California are now required to provide drug labels and instructions in accessible formats like Braille or audio for blind patients. This addresses a gap in existing laws that overlooked the needs of visually impaired individuals.
Maternal Mental Health Screenings
Health insurers will now conduct additional screenings for perinatal depression, a common issue affecting new parents in California. The screenings aim to improve detection and support for those experiencing maternal mental health challenges.
Penalties for Threatening Health Care Workers (Abortion Clinics)
California is increasing penalties for those who threaten or target providers and patients at abortion clinics. AB 2099 imposes harsher penalties for such behaviors, aiming to protect individuals seeking or providing abortion care.
Insurance Coverage for IVF
Starting in July, state-regulated health plans covering 50 or more employees will be required to cover fertility services like in vitro fertilization. While the law has been passed, implementation may be delayed as officials consider its impact on insurance benefits.
These new laws reflect California’s ongoing efforts to protect and improve the health care system in the state, addressing a range of issues from medical debt to mental health screenings. As the state navigates potential changes at the federal level, these laws play a crucial role in safeguarding the health and well-being of Californians.
This article was produced by KFF Health News, which publishes California Healthline, an editorially independent service of the California Health Care Foundation.
