California Assembly Bill AB1361

California 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/21/25
• Refer: 3/13/25
• Report Pass: 3/26/25
• Refer: 3/27/25
• Report Pass: 4/9/25
• Refer: 4/21/25
• Refer: 4/23/25
• Failed: 2/2/26

Caption

An act to add Section 92170 to the Education Code, relating to the University of California, and declaring the urgency thereof, to take effect immediately.

Impact

The passage of AB 1361 would have significant implications for health care services in Kern County, an area currently facing a shortage of physicians and health care professionals. By potentially training new medical professionals locally, the bill is seen as a step towards increasing access to healthcare services. A comprehensive feasibility study is essential for understanding the specific needs such as site selection, construction, faculty recruitment, and curriculum development, which are vital to the success of the proposed branch campus.

Summary

Assembly Bill 1361, known as the County of Kern Grow Our Own Medical School Feasibility Study Act, is aimed at addressing the growing need for health care professionals in California, particularly in underserved regions like Kern County. The bill mandates the University of California to complete a feasibility study that determines the necessary steps to establish a branch campus of an existing medical school in Kern County. This initiative is tied to an endowment fund established to support the ongoing costs of development, operation, and maintenance of this campus, should it be approved.

Sentiment

The sentiment towards AB 1361 appears largely positive among supporters, who view it as a crucial measure to mitigate the health professional shortage in the region. However, some stakeholders may express concern regarding the execution of the feasibility study and the subsequent commitment of resources to establish the branch campus effectively. The urgency statute accompanying the bill highlights the critical nature of the health care deficit and the need for immediate action to address it.

Contention

Despite the general support, there may be points of contention regarding funding, resource allocation, and the timing of the feasibility study's execution. Stakeholders, including local medical organizations and labor unions, are expected to play a role in the consultation process, raising questions about how effectively the study will incorporate diverse community needs. Additionally, ensuring that the implementation timeline remains on track could be a challenge, given the complexity of establishing a medical education institution.