California Assembly Bill AB144

California 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/8/25
• Refer: 2/3/25
• Engrossed: 3/20/25
• Refer: 3/20/25
• Refer: 4/2/25
• Report Pass: 9/9/25
• Refer: 9/9/25
• Report Pass: 9/10/25
• Enrolled: 9/12/25
• Chaptered: 9/17/25
• Passed: 9/17/25

Caption

An act to amend Sections 1246, 1300, 1300.1, 1625.6, 2473, 3041, and 3041.5 of, and to add Sections 901 and 4052.05 to, the Business and Professions Code, to amend Section 48980.4 of the Education Code, to amend Section 100520.5 of, and add Section 100503.6 to, the Government Code, to amend Sections 1206, 1261.3, 1342.2, 1342.3, 1347.8, 1367.002, 1367.3, 1367.35, 100425, 100450, 104151, 120372, 120372.05, 120392.2, 120392.3, 120392.6, 120392.9, 120393, 124981, and 124982 of, to amend, repeal, and add Sections 120336, 120390.6, and 120455 of, to add Sections 1797.11 and 120164 to, to add and repeal Chapter 6.1 (commencing with Section 127640) of Part 2 of Division 107 of, and to repeal Section 11756.8 of, the Health and Safety Code, to amend Sections 10110.7, 10110.75, 10112.2, 10123.5, and 10123.55 of the Insurance Code, to amend Section 30461.6 of the Revenue and Taxation Code, to amend Sections 5961.4, 11265.8, 14005.27, 14005.62, 14007.5, 14007.8, 14012.5, 14105.47, 14105.475, 14124.11, 14146, 14146.5, and 14501 of, to add Section 14132.995 to, and to repeal Sections 14007.95 and 14100.95 of, the Welfare and Institutions Code, to amend Section 118 of Chapter 21 of the Statutes of 2025, and to repeal Section 34 of Chapter 80 of the Statutes of 2005, and Section 67 of Chapter 758 of the Statutes of 2008, relating to health, and making an appropriation therefor, to take effect immediately, bill related to the budget.

Impact

The bill's provisions represent a notable shift in the regulation of healthcare practices in California, particularly by easing restrictions that could hinder medical service provision during large events like the Olympics. The introduction of the Abortion Access Fund seeks to enhance reproductive health services by ensuring funding is available independently of federal restrictions. Furthermore, the inclusion of amendments relating to immunization practices is expected to provide greater clarity and alignment with national health recommendations, which could lead to improved public health outcomes across the state.

Summary

Assembly Bill 144, known as the Health Budget Bill, amends and enacts various provisions related to health care laws in California. Key aspects of the bill include exemptions from licensure requirements for out-of-state health care practitioners providing services during the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2028, thereby facilitating the provision of medical care during this significant event. Additionally, the bill addresses a range of public health matters, such as aligning immunization coverage with updated guidelines from health authorities and instituting an Abortion Access Fund to support abortion services through state health plans. This is particularly significant as the fund is intended to cover those services without reliance on federal funding restrictions for abortions, thus improving access to care.

Sentiment

Discussions surrounding the bill have highlighted a mix of support and concern. Proponents laud the bill as a progressive step towards enhancing healthcare access and ensuring public safety during major events, reflecting a commitment to comprehensive health policy reform. Conversely, critics express apprehensions over the potential implications of the Abortion Access Fund and the broader consequences of easing regulations during the Olympics, fearing that it may undermine existing healthcare standards and local autonomy in public health matters.

Contention

Notable points of contention include debates over the exemption of out-of-state practitioners from California's licensure requirements, with opponents arguing that such measures might compromise quality of care. Moreover, the establishment of the Abortion Access Fund raises ethical and legal concerns, particularly among groups advocating for stricter regulations on abortion services. As the bill aims to modify existing funding and regulatory frameworks, its passage and implementation are likely to be closely monitored and discussed within legislative circles and among affected stakeholders.