California Assembly Bill AB2233

California 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/19/26
• Refer: 3/9/26
• Report Pass: 3/25/26
• Refer: 3/25/26
• Report Pass: 4/8/26
• Engrossed: 4/16/26
• Refer: 4/16/26
• Refer: 5/6/26
• Report Pass: 6/4/26
• Refer: 6/8/26

Caption

An act to amend Section 1374.73 of the Health and Safety Code, and to amend Section 10144.51 of the Insurance Code, relating to health care coverage.

Impact

If enacted, AB 2233 will reform how behavioral health services are administered under existing California health care laws. By mandating that authorized treatment hours remain available for the full duration of the authorization period, the bill aims to prevent the forfeiture of useful treatment time, thereby ensuring more comprehensive and effective behavioral health care for individuals diagnosed with autism or related disorders. Furthermore, it addresses administrative barriers that may have previously hindered access to necessary services, promoting the welfare of affected individuals and families.

Summary

Assembly Bill 2233, introduced by Assembly Member Ta, aims to amend certain sections of the Health and Safety Code and the Insurance Code, focusing specifically on behavioral health treatment for pervasive developmental disorders and autism. The bill seeks to enhance the availability and utility of authorized treatment hours by prohibiting health care service plans and health insurers from imposing restrictions on the use of these hours within the six-month authorization period. This change is intended to ensure that individuals receiving treatment for these conditions can access the necessary care without forfeiture of unused hours, thereby supporting better health outcomes and greater consistency in treatment access.

Contention

While the bill aims to streamline access to behavioral health treatments, some stakeholders may raise concerns regarding the implications for health care service plans and insurers. The prohibition on imposing restrictions could be seen as a burden on insurers, who may argue that such regulations could lead to increased costs or complexities in care management. Moreover, the bill's mandate not to require re-diagnosis for continued coverage may be debated as it intersects with established practices around treatment evaluations and oversight.

Additional notes

The bill also establishes consequences for willful violations by imposing criminal penalties, thereby reinforcing the seriousness of compliance within the healthcare industry.