Transcript Highlights:

• Moved by Aguirre-Curry. Seconded by Carrillo.
• Chen, Addis, Aguiar-Curry, Aguiar-Curry, aye, Arambula, aye, Carrillo, aye, Flora, Gonzalez, Gonzalez
• Aguiar-Curry. Sorry? Chen. Addis. Aguiar-Curry. Aguiar-Curry, aye. Arambula. Arambula, aye. Corrio.
• Aguiar-Curry, aye. Flora. That's still out. Item number two, AB 29 for add-ons. Aguiar-Curry, aye.
• Aguiar-Curry, aye. Carrillo, aye. Flora, aye. Aguiar-Curry, aye. I. Curio, aye. Flora, aye.

Summary: The Assembly Health Committee heard a long series of health-related bills, with most measures focused on access to care, administrative simplification, and behavioral health. Early items included AB 583, allowing nurse practitioners to sign death certificates; AB 492, requiring DHCS to notify local governments when new alcohol or drug recovery facilities are licensed; and AB 280, which would tighten provider directory accuracy requirements, add enforcement benchmarks, and allow use of a centralized database. Testimony on AB 280 highlighted the harms of “ghost networks,” while insurers and some provider groups opposed the bill as written, arguing it placed too much responsibility on plans and did not fully address provider-side data problems. AB 280 passed on a roll call vote, and several other bills were placed on consent and approved. The committee also advanced AB 636, expanding Medi-Cal coverage for medically necessary diapers for children up to age 21 and lowering the age threshold for access; AB 1041, streamlining physician credentialing with a uniform form and 90-day review deadline; and AB 787, requiring health plans to help enrollees find in-network providers quickly when directories fail. Supporters of these bills emphasized family financial strain, delays in care, and the burden of administrative red tape, while opponents of AB 1041 and AB 280 raised concerns about provider participation, accuracy, and liability. All three measures were approved and sent to Appropriations. The committee then took up AB 4 and AB 29. AB 4 would allow income-eligible Californians to buy Covered California coverage regardless of immigration status, and AB 29 would authorize Medi-Cal reimbursement for community health workers and doulas conducting ACE screenings. Both bills drew strong support from immigrant-rights, health access, and community-based organizations, and both passed on roll call votes, with AB 4 receiving some no votes. The committee also approved AB 416, which would allow emergency physicians to place 5150 holds in certain circumstances; supporters said it would reduce delays and overcrowding in emergency departments, while Disability Rights California and others warned it could increase unnecessary involuntary hospitalization and transfers to locked facilities. Despite those concerns, the bill passed and was sent onward for further consideration.

Transcript Highlights:

• Moved by Cecilia Aguiar-Curry, seconded by Arambula. Thank you. Bonta.
• Moved by Cecilia Aguiar-Curry, seconded by Arambula. Bonta, aye. Addis, aye. Aguiar-Curry, aye.
• Moved by Aguiar-Curry, seconded by Lara. Secretary, please call the roll. Bonta, aye.
• Aguiar-Curry, aye. Arambula, aye. Correa, aye. Carrillo, aye. Aguiar-Curry, aye. Arambula, aye.
• Moved by Cecilia Aguiar-Curry, seconded by Carrillo. We will hear from our witnesses.

Summary: The Assembly Health Committee met on March 25, 2025, with Chair Mia Bonta presiding and initially operating as a subcommittee until quorum was established. The committee heard several health-related bills, including AB 73 on creating a Black Mental Health Navigator certification, AB 499 on lowering the state reimbursement trigger for the Robert F. Kennedy Farm Workers Medical Plan, AB 843 on aligning California health insurance language-access rules with federal standards, AB 257 on a specialty care network using telehealth and virtual services for Medi-Cal and underserved communities, AB 64 on allowing diacritical marks on vital records, AB 315 on the Home and Community-Based Alternatives waiver, and AB 40 on clarifying that emergency services include reproductive health services such as abortion. Testimony generally emphasized disparities in access, culturally competent care, language access, rural provider shortages, and the importance of preserving or expanding programs that help vulnerable populations. Supporters included authors, state and local health organizations, advocacy groups, and affected individuals. AB 73 was backed as a way to address stigma, mistrust, and culturally competent mental health access for Black Californians. AB 499 was described as helping keep a self-insured farmworker health plan operational while maintaining a low-cost, labor-management model. AB 843 was supported as a way to prevent children and families from having to translate sensitive medical and insurance information and to protect limited-English-proficient Californians. AB 257 drew support as a demonstration project to improve specialty care access through California-based clinicians and virtual care, with examples of reduced wait times and costs. AB 64 received emotional testimony from the author, a child and his family, and others about the importance of accurately recording names with accents and other marks. AB 315 was presented as a cost-neutral or cost-saving way to expand home- and community-based care for medically fragile people, with strong support from disability, health, and provider groups. AB 40 drew support from reproductive health and medical organizations, while one opposition witness argued it could conflict with emergency care standards and overburden emergency departments. The committee took roll-call votes and advanced AB 499, AB 73, AB 843, AB 257, AB 64, AB 315, and AB 40 to Appropriations, with AB 40 receiving some no votes. The committee also adopted its 2025-26 rules and approved a consent calendar that included AB 225, AB 304, AB 403, AB 688, and AB 951. Several measures were initially placed on call and later lifted and recorded as passing out of committee before adjournment.

Transcript Highlights:

• Aguirre-Currie? Aye. Aguirre-Currie, aye. Connolly? Aye. Connolly, aye. Gonzales? Aye.
• Motion by Assemblywoman Aguiar-Curry. Second by Assemblywoman Aguiar-Curry. member Conley.
• Agriar-Curry? Aye. Agriar-Curry, aye. Connally? Aye. Connally, aye. Gonzales? No. Gonzales, no.
• Aguiar-Curry? Aye. Aguiar-Curry, aye.
• Agriar-Curry? Aye. Agriar-Curry, aye. Connelly? Aye. Thank you.

Keywords: 988, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Aguiar-Curry, aye. Arreguín, aye. Carrillo, aye. Harabedian, aye. Hart...
• Curry, aye, Hoover, Lackey. Lackey, AB 630 is I, Happen, Ransom, Ward.
• Aguiar-Curry. Changing to not voting, Aguiar-Curry. Changing to not voting, Hoover, Lackey.
• Aguiar-Curry, aye. Wilson, aye. Davies, aye. Aguiar-Curry, aye. Carrillo, aye. Harabedian, aye.
• We have a motion by Aguiar-Curry and seconded by Arens.

Summary: The committee heard and advanced several transportation-related bills, beginning with AB 431 on advanced air mobility. The author and supporters from AUVSI, Joby Aviation, United Airlines, Wisk Aero, the City of Long Beach, and Archer said the bill would create a statewide plan and technical framework for eVTOL/advanced air mobility infrastructure, public outreach, and local implementation. No opposition testified, and the bill passed the committee as amended to Appropriations on a unanimous roll call. Members then took up AB 630 on abandoned or hazardous RVs. The author and supporters, including Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass’s office, argued the bill would curb a cycle in which inoperable RVs are towed, auctioned cheaply, and returned to the streets by predatory buyers, while adding notice, recovery, and reporting requirements. Opponents from Western Center on Law and Poverty and ACLU California Action warned the bill would destroy RVs that serve as shelter for unhoused residents and could worsen homelessness. After discussion about the bill’s focus on dismantling rather than towing, the committee passed AB 630 as amended to Appropriations. The committee also approved AB 314, which would support transit-oriented development around planned and existing high-speed rail stations; AB 1223, which gives Sacramento County communities more flexibility to use local transportation revenues for related infrastructure supporting infill development; AB 1111, which adds flexibility to the zero-emission school bus transition for rural and disadvantaged districts; AB 1190, which caps fees charged by DMV business partners and requires clearer disclosure of the official DMV site; AB 987, which limits unreasonable towing fees and related charges; and AB 911, which creates a narrow exemption from Advanced Clean Fleets rules for telecommunications bucket trucks and sail-on-wheels used in emergencies. Most bills drew support from local governments, industry, or consumer groups, while AB 1111 and AB 911 drew opposition from clean transportation and environmental advocates concerned about weakening emissions goals. All of the bills were reported out as amended to the Committee on Appropriations, with recorded roll-call votes and several members adding their names as co-authors or supporters.

Transcript Highlights:

• Chen, Addis, Aguiar-Curry. Aguiar-Curry, aye. Arambula, aye. Carrillo, aye. Correo, aye.
• Aguiar-Curry. Thank you. Aye. Bonta, aye. Chen. Addis. Aguiar-Curry, aye. Arambula, aye.
• Moved by Aguiar-Curry, seconded by Chiavo. Moved by Aguiar-Curry, seconded by Chiavo.
• Aguiar-Curry: aye. Aguiar-Curry: aye. Arambula: aye. Arambula: aye. Carrillo: aye.
• Aguiar-Curry: aye. Aguiar-Curry: aye. Flora: not voting. Patterson: no. Patterson: no.

Summary: The Assembly Health Committee heard a long agenda of health bills focused on access to preventive care, behavioral health, hospital services, and patient safety. Early items included AB 554, which would expand and protect access to HIV prevention drugs like PrEP, including injectable forms and coverage protections; supporters said it would shore up access amid federal threats, while insurers opposed it as a costly benefit mandate. AB 577 would limit insurer and PBM practices that steer medications away from physician offices and require more transparency and patient consent; doctors and patient advocates supported it, while health plans and insurers warned it could raise drug costs and disrupt specialty pharmacy networks. AB 546 would require coverage for portable HEPA purifiers for vulnerable enrollees during declared emergencies, especially wildfire smoke events, with support from air quality and public health groups and opposition from insurers concerned about benefit expansion and cost. The committee also heard AB 224, which would codify California’s updated essential health benefits benchmark plan after a public review process, adding infertility treatment, hearing aids, and durable medical equipment if approved by CMS for the 2027 plan year. DMHC said the state had completed the review and needed legislation to meet federal timing, and the measure drew broad support. AB 1032 would require plans and insurers to reimburse up to 12 additional behavioral health visits for enrollees in wildfire-affected counties for a limited period after an emergency; supporters argued it would fill gaps in trauma care after disasters, while insurers said existing parity and continuity-of-care rules already address the issue and that the bill could create inequities. AB 849 would require trained chaperones for sensitive ultrasound exams and training on how to observe and intervene; it was backed by a survivor and patient advocates, with hospitals and health districts raising staffing concerns. Later, AB 1196 would direct the Department of Public Health to update outdated rules requiring three surgeons for certain heart surgeries using cardiopulmonary bypass; supporters said the rule no longer reflects modern practice and strains staffing, while cardiology representatives had no formal opposition but wanted to review amendments. AB 1113 would codify a right to wear a mask for health reasons in public spaces, with support from disability and public health groups. AB 1386 sought to add perinatal care to the list of basic hospital services, prompting testimony about maternity ward closures, workforce shortages, and rural access; the author said the bill would be amended further and that the committee would need to revisit timelines and implementation details. The committee also heard AB 1429, which would address Kaiser’s repeated mental health parity violations and improve access to behavioral health care, though the transcript cuts off before any action on that bill is shown. Several bills were moved with motions and seconds, but many were held for quorum; AB 1196, AB 1113, and AB 1386 were among the measures advanced to a roll call or held on call, and the committee repeatedly noted that final votes would occur when quorum was available.

Transcript Highlights:

• Move by Aguiar-Curry, seconded by Carrillo.
• Aye, aye, Addis, aye, Agar Curry.
• Aguirre Curry, aye, a, a, aria curry, aye, a, aaron's, aye, Koloza, Koloza, I, Carrillo, aye, I, Gonzalez
• Assembly Member Aguirre-Curry.
• Aguiar-Curry: aye. Aguiar-Curry: aye. Aaron's: aye. Caloza: aye. Carrio: aye. Gonzalez: aye.

Summary: The Assembly Health Committee heard several bills focused on mental health access, preventive care, health care costs, detention oversight, and daylight saving time. SB 989 would streamline Care Court referrals by allowing first responders to ask county behavioral health agencies to review and file petitions; supporters, especially firefighters and families, said the current process is too burdensome, while Disability Rights California and other opponents argued Care Court is coercive and unproven. SB 1089, as amended, would direct CalRx/HHS to help distribute GLP-1 medications more broadly and more affordably; the author described her own experience with the drugs, and the bill drew support from medical and life sciences groups with no opposition. SB 1309 would eliminate out-of-pocket costs for medically appropriate lung cancer screening follow-up care; cancer advocates and survivors strongly supported it, while health plans and insurers opposed it as costly and said the bigger problem is low initial screening rates. The committee also heard SB 1284, which would require DHCS to report large employers whose workers are enrolled in Medi-Cal and estimate taxpayer costs, framed by supporters as a transparency measure about corporate reliance on public coverage. SCR 7, urging permanent standard time for health reasons, passed with support from medical groups and no opposition. SB 995, the Masuma Khan Justice Act, would create statewide inspection and enforcement standards for large involuntary residential facilities, including private immigration detention centers and certain youth facilities; supporters cited unsafe and inhumane conditions, while county probation officials objected to duplicative oversight for secure youth treatment facilities. The committee took votes on each measure, and the bills and resolution advanced, with SB 1309 and SB 1284 moving on amended and the others also reported out; the consent calendar was approved as well.

Transcript Highlights:

• Aguiar-Curry: Aye. Aguiar-Curry: Aye. Irwin: Aye. Carrillo: Aye.
• Seconded by Aguiar-Curry. No other comments from committee.
• Agara Curry. Aye. Agar Curry, aye. Aye. Ariens. Coloza. Carrillo. Jeff Gonzalez. Mark Gonzalez.
• Aguiar-Curry: Aye. Aye. Ayer Curry: Aye. Jeff Gonzalez. Mark Gonzalez. Ayrns. Colosa. Carrillo.
• Aguiar-Curry, aye. Arambula, aye. Caloza, aye. Carrillo, aye.

Summary: The Assembly Health Committee heard a series of bills focused on behavioral health, cancer screening, provider reimbursement, research funding, workforce licensing, and tobacco regulation. SB 16 would require counties to maintain procedures for designating and training professionals authorized to perform 5150 evaluations and initiate involuntary holds; supporters said it would expand the pool of qualified clinicians and reduce reliance on law enforcement, while opponents raised concerns about local control and implementation. SB 1124 would require CDPH to create and post lung cancer screening eligibility signage at tobacco point-of-sale locations; supporters emphasized low screening awareness and early detection, and the bill was advanced with amendments. SB 28, a CARE Court cleanup bill, proposed an ombudsperson, reporting, electronic petitions, remote participation, and other changes to improve accountability and access; it drew both strong support and significant opposition over concerns about coercion, scope, and whether the program is working as intended, but it passed the committee as amended to Judiciary. The committee also heard SB 874, which would strengthen oversight of Medi-Cal behavioral health treatment services, including background checks for providers and a stakeholder workgroup to develop standards; it passed to Public Safety. SB 1049 would let providers resubmit corrected claims within 90 days after a plan’s denial or recoupment action when the original claim had a correctable technical defect; supporters described delayed and withheld payments harming practices, while insurers argued the bill could duplicate existing dispute processes. The bill passed to Appropriations on call. SB 1224 would create a state framework to compete for federal ARPA-H funding for emerging therapies research, with testimony from a UC Davis psychiatrist and veterans’ advocates supporting expanded research into treatments for PTSD, depression, and other conditions; it passed to Military and Veterans Affairs. Later, SB 1057 would change how the Department of Public Health evaluates conviction history for certified nurse assistants and home health aides, shifting from automatic denial toward individualized assessment based on the offense, time elapsed, and rehabilitation; it passed to Appropriations with some no votes. Finally, SB 1314, a tobacco-related bill, sought to create a 600-foot buffer around schools and day care centers for certain tobacco retailers and address related issues such as cigar lounge definitions and nitrous oxide sales; several local government and public safety groups supported it, while health organizations and business groups opposed it unless amended. The chair announced that committee amendments were being set aside for now and the bill would move forward to Business and Professions with a commitment to continue working on the language; it passed out of committee.

Transcript Highlights:

• Okay, so I think the only author in the room is our Majority Leader, Aguiar-Curry, so do you wish to?
• Gary curry would you like to close on your bill.
• Aguiar-Curry? Aye. Aguiar-Curry, aye. Connelly, Gonzalez? Hadwick? Aye. Irwin? Aye. Ransom? Aye.
• Assemblymember Aguiar-Curry. My apricot tree is the happiest it's ever been.
• Aguiar-Curry? Aye. Aguiar-Curry, aye. Connolly? Aye. Connolly, aye. Gonzales? Aye. Gonzales, aye.

Keywords: 988, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• AB 8, Aguiar-Curry, cannabis law and hemp: AB 8, Aguiar-Curry, cannabis law and hemp: do pass with authors
• AB 325, Aguiar-Curry, Cartwright Act: do pass out on a B roll call.
• AB 325, Aguiar-Curry, Cartwright Act: do pass out on a B roll call.
• AB 464, Aguiar-Curry, prison sexual assault: two-year bill.
• AB 717, Aguiar-Curry, small restoration use: hold in committee.

Summary: The Assembly Appropriations Committee held its May 23, 2025 suspense hearing and opened by emphasizing the difficult budget environment, rising costs for constituents, and the need to make tough choices. The chair said many bills would be held, amended to reduce costs, or made two-year bills because the state could not afford broad program expansions this year. The committee also noted the agenda was organized alphabetically by author and that results would be posted later that day. The committee then acted on a large suspense file, taking up hundreds of Assembly bills across topics including housing, health care, education, labor, public safety, climate, water, transportation, elections, and technology. Many bills were held in committee, while many others were approved with cost-saving, clarifying, or author’s amendments. Examples included measures on CalABLE, Covered California enrollment, wildfire and insurance issues, reproductive health, school and college programs, prison and juvenile justice matters, AI and data privacy, and local government and utility regulation. Several bills were converted to two-year bills to continue discussion. Throughout the hearing, the committee repeatedly voted on bills by A roll call or B roll call, often with Republicans not voting on amended measures. Some bills were advanced with notable amendments, such as narrowing scope, removing appropriations, delaying implementation, or striking costly provisions. The committee also approved a number of committee bills and omnibus measures, including emergency management, judiciary, insurance, and water-related bills. At the end of the hearing, the chair stated that the committee had moved 435 bills to the Assembly floor, either as do pass or do pass as amended, and adjourned the meeting.

Transcript Highlights:

• Move by Aguiar-Curry, seconded by Carrillo.
• Aguiar-Curry? Aguiar-Curry here. Arens here. Kolozaa here. Koloza here. Kroo... Aaron's here.
• Assemblymember Aguiar-Curry.
• Aguiar-Curry: aye. Aguiar-Curry: aye. Aaron's: aye. Colosa: aye. Carrio: Gonzalez: aye.
• Aguiar-Curry: Aye. Aguiar-Curry: Aye. Arons: Aye. Callosa: Aye. Carrillo: No. Aye. Arons: Aye.

Keywords: 988, house, all

Summary: The Assembly Health Committee heard several bills focused on access to care, public health, and oversight. SB 989 would streamline Care Court referrals by allowing first responders to ask county behavioral health agencies to review and file petitions; supporters, including firefighters and mental health advocates, said it would reduce barriers, while opponents argued Care Court is coercive, costly, and not yet proven effective. SB 1089, as amended, would direct CalRx/HHS to help distribute GLP-1 medications more affordably; the author described personal experience with the drugs and supporters emphasized prevention and chronic disease management, while members asked about distribution, liability, and age limits. SB 1309 would eliminate cost sharing for medically necessary lung cancer follow-up care after abnormal screenings; cancer survivors and clinicians strongly supported it, while health plans and insurers opposed it, saying the bill could raise premiums and did not address low initial screening rates. The committee also heard SB 1284, which would require DHCS to publish an annual report identifying large employers with workers enrolled in Medi-Cal and estimating taxpayer costs; supporters framed it as transparency and corporate accountability, while the chair and others linked it to broader budget and fairness concerns. SCR 7, urging permanent standard time, was presented as a public health measure to reduce sleep disruption and related harms, and it passed with support from the California Medical Association. The committee also took up SB 995, which would create a statewide inspection and enforcement framework for large involuntary residential facilities, including private immigration detention centers and some youth facilities; supporters cited unsafe and inhumane conditions, while probation officials objected to overlap with existing oversight for secure youth treatment facilities. The committee approved the measures it heard, with roll calls showing SB 989, SB 1089, SB 1309, SB 1284, SCR 7, and SB 995 all advancing out of committee, along with consent items and add-on votes.

Transcript Highlights:

• Can I get a second by Aguiar-Curry? Please call the roll.
• Sanchez, Addis, Aguiar-Curry, Ahrens, Caloza, Carrillo, Jeff Gonzalez, no.
• Aguiar-Curry. On consent, Sanchez: aye. Aguiar-Curry: aye. Ahrens: aye. Caloza: aye. Carrillo: aye.
• Aguiar-Curry: aye. Ahrens: aye. Aguirre-Curry: aye. Ahrens: aye. Caloza. Carrillo. Mark Gonzalez.
• Aguiar-Curry: not voting. Aguiar-Curry: aye. Ahrens: aye. Carrillo: aye. Jeff Gonzalez: aye.

Keywords: 988, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Sanchez, Addis, Aguiar-Curry... Bonta here. Bonta here. Sanchez, Addis, Aguiar-Curry...
• Can I get a second by Aguiar-Curry? Please call the roll.
• Sanchez, Addis, Aguiar-Curry... Aguiar-Curry aye. Arreguín aye. Carrillo aye. Jeff Gonzalez no.
• Aguirre-Curry, aye. Arreguín, aye. Calóza. Aguirre-Curry, aye. Arreguín, aye. Arons, aye. Calóza.
• Aguirre-Curry, not voting. Aguirre-Curry, aye. Arons, aye. Calóza. Carrillo, aye.

Summary: The Assembly Health Committee heard several measures, beginning with SB 331 by Sen. Menjivar, which would require large-group health plans to cover hearing aids for children. The author and supporters described the bill as a long-running effort to address a developmental emergency and reduce out-of-pocket costs for families, while opponents were absent. Testimony from parents, advocates, medical experts, and organizations emphasized the importance of early access to hearing aids; committee members voiced strong support, and the bill was moved on a do-pass basis to Appropriations, with several members requesting to be added as coauthors. The committee then heard SB 608, also by Sen. Menjivar, to expand access to condoms in school-based health centers and related settings and to prevent barriers such as ID checks. Supporters, including students and school health advocates, argued the bill would improve sexual health and reduce stigma, while opponents from family and faith groups argued it would undermine parental authority and normalize early sexual activity. The bill was supported by committee members and moved forward on a do-pass basis to Appropriations. Next, SB 971 by Sen. Choi proposed community-based healthy aging partnerships for older adults, with testimony from the California Senior Legislature and supporters from aging and dementia organizations. The measure was described as voluntary and focused on connection, independence, and local collaboration; there was no opposition, and the committee moved it on a do-pass basis to Appropriations. The committee also heard SB 869 by Sen. Weber Pierson, which would require warning icons and statements on chain restaurant menus for beverages with very high added sugar content. Supporters framed it as a transparency and public health measure, while restaurant and beverage industry representatives opposed it unless amended, citing cost and menu-space concerns; the bill was nevertheless moved on a do-pass basis to Appropriations after a roll call vote, with some members voting no and the measure placed on call. The committee also considered SB 950 by Sen. Weber Pierson, aimed at ensuring timely coverage of FDA-approved, medically necessary treatments for early-onset Alzheimer’s disease on commercial plans. Supporters, including the Alzheimer’s Association and a patient advocate, said the bill would reduce delays and barriers to care, while health plan representatives opposed it over step therapy and utilization-management concerns. Members discussed the limited treatment window and the need for early access, and the bill was moved on a do-pass basis to Appropriations. In addition, SB 490 by Sen. Umberg would set timelines for DHCS investigations of unlicensed sober living homes and allow counties to assist if the department cannot act in time; supporters from Anaheim and a patient-brokering survivor described serious abuse and oversight gaps, while county behavioral health representatives opposed the county role as an unfunded and potentially liability-creating burden. After discussion, the bill was also moved on a do-pass basis to Appropriations. Finally, the committee began hearing SB 1037 by Sen. Weber Pierson on health insurance affordability and rate review, with supporters arguing it would tie premium increases more closely to affordability targets and public reporting; the transcript cuts off before the committee completed action on that measure.

Transcript Highlights:

• Seeing none, Assemblymember Aguiar-Curry, would you like to close on your bill? Yeah, I did.
• Great bill, Majority Leader Aguiar-Curry. Would you like to close on your bill?
• Aguiar-Curry. Aye. Connolly. Gonzalez. Aye. Gonzales. Aye. Hadwick. Aye. Hadwick not voting.
• Aguiar-Curry? Aye. Aye. Connolly. Gonzales. Gonzalez. Aye. Gonzales. Aye. Hadwick? Hadwick. Aye.
• On AB 52, Aguiar-Curry, Connolly. Connolly, aye. Irwin? Aye. Irwin. Curry, Connolly. I. Irwin, aye.

Summary: The Assembly Committee on Agriculture met with two bills on the agenda. The chair opened the hearing with procedural reminders and a brief welcome back for the new year, then moved to AB 52 by Majority Leader Aguiar-Curry, which would codify the California BIPOC Producer Advisory Committee and the California Small-Scale Producer Advisory Committee in statute. The author and a supporting witness said the committees are important to implementing the Farmer Equity Act and ensuring farmers and ranchers of color and small-scale producers have a meaningful role in CDFA policymaking; several organizations testified in support, and no opposition was heard. The committee then heard AB 230 by Assemblywoman Ransom, which extends the sunset of the Pierce’s disease control program and the Pierce’s disease glassy-wing sharpshooter board to 2037. The author and a representative of the wine grape industry described the program as essential to controlling a disease that threatens grapevines and to supporting research and field efforts funded by federal, industry, and grower assessments. Testimony from the Wine Institute, Family Winemakers of California, California Fresh Fruit Association, and the California Farm Bureau was in support, with no opposition. Both bills were moved on due pass motions to the Appropriations Committee and approved by the committee. AB 230 received eight aye votes and AB 52 later received seven aye votes after the roll was held open for absent members. The committee then adjourned.

Transcript Highlights:

• Aguiar-Curry. Arons. Aye. Caloza. Addis. Aguiar-Curry. Arons. Aye. Caloza. Carrillo. Aye. Elhawary.
• Seconded by Aguiar-Curry.
• Moved by Cecilia Aguiar-Curry, seconded by Sharp-Collins, I think I heard.
• Aguiar-Curry, aye. Arias, aye. Colosa, aye. Elhawary, aye. Johnson. Patel, aye. Patterson.
• We have a motion by Aguiar-Curry, seconded by Patel, and you'll each have two minutes.

Summary: The Assembly Health Committee heard several bills on June 9. SB 1023 by Senator Laird would require insurers that cover injectable HIV PrEP under the medical benefit to also cover it through the pharmacy benefit, with supporters saying the change would reduce reimbursement delays and expand access, while health plans opposed it as an unnecessary mandate that interferes with benefit design. SB 964 by Senator Smallwood-Quivas would limit prior authorization for certain dose or frequency adjustments to covered medications, especially for chronic complex conditions; medical supporters said it would prevent harmful delays in care, while insurers argued it weakens safety and utilization controls. SB 1323 by Senator Rubio, as amended, would strengthen protections for people in immigration custody receiving medical care by requiring hospitals and facilities to inform staff how to respond to requests and allowing patients to notify family members of their location; it passed with one no vote. SB 1099 by Senator Reyes would clarify local governments’ authority to provide state and local public benefits to all residents under federal PRWORA rules, with supporters saying it would reduce legal uncertainty for safety-net services; it passed, though one member later changed a vote to no on the add-on roll call. The committee also took up SB 895 by Senator Wiener, a proposed $12 billion science research bond for the November ballot that would create a California scientific research funding institute. Supporters from UC, UAW, hospitals, and advocacy groups said the measure would help offset federal cuts, protect research jobs, and sustain California’s leadership in biomedical and other research; there was no opposition, and the bill passed on a party-line style vote with two no votes. SB 944, also by Senator Wiener, would stabilize Medi-Cal coverage for acupuncture, which supporters described as a cost-effective, non-pharmacological treatment for pain and other conditions that has repeatedly been threatened in the budget process; it passed unanimously. The committee also approved consent items SB 918 and SB 1202, and later cleared the remaining measures on call after roll votes and add-on votes were taken.

Transcript Highlights:

• Majority Leader Aguiar-Curry? Thank you for bringing the bill forward.
• Majority Leader Aguiar-Curry, you know I love this.
• Majority Leader Agiar Curry. You know I love this little.
• Aguiar-Curry. Connolly. Gonzales. Hadwick. Irwin. Ransom. Aye.
• Aguiar-Curry? Aye. Aguiar-Curry, aye. Connolly? Aye. Connolly, aye. Godwin? Aye. Hadwick? Aye.

Summary: The Assembly Committee on Agriculture met as a subcommittee and heard several bills, with extensive discussion focused on balancing agricultural land preservation, water scarcity, renewable energy, and farm equity. AB 1156 by Assembly Member Wicks would update the solar use easement program to allow certain Williamson Act lands facing water constraints to be used for solar projects through a suspension rather than cancellation of contracts. Supporters said the bill could help landowners and local governments adapt to falling water supplies and meet clean energy goals, while opponents, including the Farm Bureau, warned it could weaken Williamson Act protections, expand solar development onto prime farmland, and eliminate cancellation fees that help preserve agricultural land. RCRC said its concerns had largely been addressed through amendments and moved from opposition to support once changes are in print, though committee members continued to raise concerns about prime farmland, community benefits, and definitions of commercial viability and water constraints. The bill passed the committee on a due-pass-as-amended motion, with a later roll call recording six votes in favor and one absent member voting aye. AB 524 by Assembly Member Wilson would create a new state land access program for beginning and socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers, using Proposition 4 funding to provide financial and technical assistance for land acquisition, protection, and long-term leases. Testimony emphasized the lack of secure land tenure for small and underserved farmers, the loss of farmland statewide, and the difficulty of investing in sustainable practices without stable access to land. Committee members strongly supported the measure, with several noting the importance of land access for family farms and equity in agriculture. The bill passed unanimously on an 8-0 vote. The committee also approved AB 675 by Majority Leader Aguiar-Curry, which would codify California’s Farm to School program in statute. Supporters said the program connects students to healthy local food, creates stable markets for farmers, and supports agricultural and nutrition education, while helping direct school meal dollars to California producers. Witnesses from the Center for Ecoliteracy and CAFF described the program’s statewide reach and benefits for small farms and high-need schools. The bill passed on an 8-0 vote. The committee also adopted the consent calendar, approving AB 1322 and AB 1505 on an 8-0 vote.

Transcript Highlights:

• Moved by Carrillo, seconded by Aguiar-Curry. Thank you.
• Moved by Cecilia Aguiar-Curry, seconded by Sharp Collins, I think I heard.
• Aguirre-Curry, aye. Ayre Curry, aye. Arons, aye. Callosa, aye. Al-Hawari, aye. Patel. Patterson.
• Aguirre-Curry, aye. Koloza, aye. Patterson. That bill is now out.
• Aguiar-Curry, aye. Koloza, aye. Patterson, aye. That measure is still out.

Keywords: 988, house, all

Summary: The Assembly Health Committee heard several bills focused on health care access, insurance coverage, public health, and patient protections. SB 1023 by Senator Laird would require insurers that cover injectable PrEP under the medical benefit to also cover it under the pharmacy benefit, to reduce billing barriers and improve access to HIV prevention. Supporters included HIV/AIDS organizations, the Department of Insurance, medical groups, and LGBTQ advocates; health plans opposed the bill as an unnecessary benefit-design mandate. The committee later voted the bill out on a due pass motion, and it remained on call before being finalized out later in the hearing. SB 964 by Senator Smallwood-Cuevas would limit repeated prior authorization requirements when a clinician needs to adjust the dose or frequency of a covered medication for a patient with a chronic or complex condition, with safeguards for off-label use and controlled substances. Support came from physicians, hospitals, and patient advocates, especially in gastroenterology and chronic disease care, while insurers argued it weakened safety and utilization-management safeguards. The committee approved the bill on a due pass vote to Appropriations. SB 1323 by Senator Rubio, as amended in committee, would strengthen protections for patients receiving medical care while in immigration custody by requiring facilities to train staff on responding to such requests and allowing patients to notify a family member or loved one of their location. It passed the committee on a due pass as amended vote to Judiciary, with one no vote recorded. SB 1099 by Senator Reyes would clarify local governments’ authority to provide state and local public benefits to all residents under the federal PRWORA exemption, giving cities and counties more certainty when operating low-barrier services such as health care, shelter, crisis response, and homeless outreach. Local government attorneys and service providers supported the measure, and there was no opposition testimony; it passed to Human Services. SB 895 by Senator Wiener would place a $12 billion science research bond on the November ballot and create a state research funding institute to help sustain California’s research economy amid federal cuts. The bill drew broad support from universities, labor, health organizations, patients, and business groups, with one member voting no because of the bond cost; it passed to Appropriations. SB 944 by Senator Wiener would stabilize Medi-Cal coverage for acupuncture, which supporters described as a cost-effective, nonpharmacological treatment for pain and other conditions. It passed to Appropriations with strong support and no opposition testimony. At the end of the hearing, the committee also took add-on votes to confirm the bills’ passage status and adjourned.

Transcript Highlights:

• Aguiar-Curry, aye. Arons, aye. Carrillo, aye. Harabedian, aye. Hart, aye. Hoover, aye.
• Moved by Aguiar-Curry. Move the bill. Second. Moved by Aguiar-Curry and seconded by Arens.
• Aguiar-Curry? Aye. Wilson? Aye. Davies? No. Aguiar-Curry? Aye. Arias? Aye. Carrillo? Aye.
• Aguiar-Curry, aye. Hoover. Aguiar-Curry, aye. Hoover, aye. Lowenthal, aye. Macedo, not voting.
• Aguiar-Curry, aye. Hoover, no. Lowenthal, aye. Happen, aye. Ransom, Ward. Ward, aye.

Summary: The Assembly Transportation Committee heard several transportation and climate-related bills. AB 954 would create a Caltrans pilot program for bike highways in two metropolitan areas and require a report to the Legislature; supporters said it would expand protected regional bike networks and help climate and equity goals, while some members objected that it would divert gas-tax-funded transportation dollars away from road repairs and rural needs. The bill passed on a 7-3 vote, with the roll held open for later additions. AB 289 would authorize automated speed enforcement in active highway construction zones to protect workers. The author and labor and contractor witnesses described repeated work-zone crashes and fatalities and argued the cameras would supplement, not replace, CHP enforcement. Some members raised concerns about civil penalties and enforcement policy, but the bill advanced on a 9-? initial vote and later was approved 15-1 after the roll was completed. AB 674 would update the Clean Cars for All program to prioritize pre-2004 high-polluting vehicles in disadvantaged and low-income communities and improve reporting and incentive rules. Supporters said older vehicles produce a disproportionate share of emissions and that the program has already retired thousands of cars; the committee approved the bill unanimously on the floor vote and sent it to the Committee on Natural Resources. AB 1237 would let LA Metro and VTA add a $5 fee to primary ticket sales for 2026 FIFA World Cup and NCAA championship events to fund transit service, with ticket holders able to use transit on event day. Supporters said the fee would help manage congestion and security needs, while the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association argued it was an unconstitutional tax requiring voter approval. The bill passed and was re-referred to the Committee on Arts, Entertainment, Sports, and Tourism. AB 891 would create a Caltrans quick-build pilot for temporary safety improvements on state highways for pedestrians and bicyclists; supporters emphasized rapid, low-cost safety fixes, while opponents said the program could divert gas-tax funds and was not appropriate for rural areas. It passed 11-4 and was sent to Appropriations. The committee also approved a six-bill consent calendar.

Transcript Highlights:

• Aguiar-Curry, aye.
• A motion has been made by Aguiar-Curry and seconded by Ahrens.
• Aguiar-Curry, I. We are... I. Wilson, I. Davies, aye. Aguiar-Curry, aye. Ahrens, aye. Carrillo, I.
• Aguiar-Curry, aye. Ahrens, aye. Carrillo, aye. Harabedian, aye. Hart, not voting.
• Aguiar-Curry, aye... Wilson, Davies, aye. Aguiar-Curry, aye. Ahrens, aye. Carrillo, aye.

Keywords: 988, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Moved by Aguiar-Curry, seconded by Arambula. Seeing none.
• Aguiar-Curry, aye... ...Aguiar-Curry, aye. Arambula, aye. Carrillo, aye. Jeff Gonzalez, aye.
• Seconded by Aguiar-Curry. No other comments from committee.
• Aguiar-Curry: Aye. Ayer Curry. Jeff Gonzalez. Mark Gonzalez. Johnson. Patel. Patterson. Chiavo.
• Aguiar-Curry: Aye. Aye. Ayer Curry: Aye. Ayrns. Colosa. Curio. Jeff Gonzalez. Mark Gonzalez. I.

Keywords: 988, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Aguiar-Curry, aye. Caloza, aye. Carrillo, aye. Aguiar-Curry. Caloza, aye. Carrillo, aye. Flora.
• Aguiar-Curry: aye. Caloza: aye. Krell: aye. Patel: aye.
• Aguiar-Curry, aye. Caloza, aye. Gonzalez, aye. Krell, aye. Patel, aye. Patterson, aye.
• Aguiar-Curry, aye. Caloza, aye. Gonzalez, aye. Krell, aye. Patel, aye. Patterson, aye.
• Aguiar-Curry, aye. Caloza, aye. Gonzalez, aye. Krell, aye. Patel, aye. Patterson, aye.

Summary: The committee heard several health-related bills, with extensive testimony on maternal health, prenatal safety, privacy, valley fever, Medi-Cal contracting, anti-discrimination protections, and health data sharing. SB 32 would require time-and-distance standards for labor and delivery units in health plan networks; the author and supporters said it would address maternity care deserts and improve access, while health plans opposed. SB 646 would require testing and public disclosure for toxic elements in prenatal vitamins; supporters emphasized fetal and maternal safety and transparency, while industry opponents warned it could confuse consumers or lead to reduced nutrient content. Both bills drew broad support from medical and public health groups, and both were advanced on party-line or near-unanimous votes after committee discussion. The committee also approved SB 313, which moves a parent’s birthplace on birth certificates into the confidential section to protect privacy, and SB 297, which directs CDPH to identify high-incidence valley fever regions and publish them for screening and awareness; valley fever experts and supporters stressed rising cases and the need for earlier diagnosis, while local health jurisdictions raised concerns about mandates. SB 324, dealing with Medi-Cal enhanced care management and community supports, would prioritize local community-based organizations and clarify contracting and data practices; it received strong support from nonprofits and community health advocates, with children’s hospitals and health plans seeking amendments, and it was sent forward after amendments were discussed. The committee then considered SB 418, which would codify ACA nondiscrimination protections in state law and allow up to a 12-month prescription supply for hormone therapy when medically necessary. Supporters framed it as protecting continuity of care for transgender patients and others using hormone therapy, including IVF and menopause patients, while opponents argued it would conflict with federal policy and promote harmful treatments. The bill passed to the next committee. Finally, SB 660 would strengthen the California Health and Human Services data exchange framework by creating governance and accountability for data sharing across health and social service entities; supporters said it would reduce duplication and improve care coordination, while some providers and hospital groups raised concerns. It was approved and sent to the Privacy and Consumer Protection Committee. The consent calendar and the other measures were also voted out, with the committee recording the required roll-call votes and sending the bills onward.