California Assembly Bill AB1852

California 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/11/26
• Refer: 3/2/26
• Failed: 4/20/26
• Failed: 4/14/26

Caption

An act to add Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 99310) to Part 65 of Division 14 of Title 3 of the Education Code, relating to medical education.

Impact

This bill will modify the existing educational framework by allowing the authority to grant Doctor of Medicine degrees and regulate its employment policies according to the standards set forth in the California Public Employment Relations Board. The establishment of the Kern Medical Education Authority will provide the governance structure necessary for the newly formed medical school, ensuring that local needs are met while complying with state laws. This education initiative is seen as critical to improving health outcomes and encouraging economic growth in the region.

Summary

Assembly Bill 1852, also known as the Kern County Grow Our Own Doctors Act, aims to address the pressing physician shortage in Kern County by establishing a local medical education authority. The bill enables the California State University and the Kern Community College District to develop a medical school if the University of California does not take formal steps to establish one in the county by July 1, 2027. The legislation recognizes the unique needs of the region, making a special case for the empowerment of local educational institutions.

Contention

While the legislation aims to resolve the physician shortage, there are concerns regarding transparency and access to public records associated with the activities of the newly created educational authority. The bill includes provisions that exempt sensitive business information, including trade secrets, from public disclosure, which some stakeholders fear could lead to a lack of accountability. Critics argue this aspect of the bill may hinder public oversight, while supporters contend it is necessary for safeguarding competitive information vital to establishing a successful medical school.