A New Chapter in the California Legislature
As the California legislature welcomes a new cohort of lawmakers on December 2, 2024, 30 Senators and Assemblymembers bid farewell, stepping away due to term limits, pursuing other offices, or choosing not to seek re-election. The California Medical Association (CMA) expresses its sincere gratitude to these outgoing lawmakers for championing physician priorities, advocating for CMA-sponsored legislation, and forging a stronger, more equitable healthcare system in California.
Key Advocates Who Made a Difference
Among the many departing legislators, several stand out for their significant contributions:
- Senator Toni Atkins, the first woman to lead the California State Senate, consistently prioritized reproductive health access. She introduced CMA-sponsored SB 487 (2023-24), ensuring Medi-Cal providers could not lose eligibility because of abortion bans in other states.
- Senator Nancy Skinner addressed critical administrative hurdles by twice sponsoring CMA-supported legislation—SB 598 (2023-24) and SB 516 (2023-24)—to reform prior authorization processes, reducing care delays.
- Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez strengthened protections for emergency department healthcare workers with AB 977 (2023-24), granting them the same safety measures afforded outside hospitals.
- Senator Susan Talamantes Eggman, as chair of the Senate Health Committee, played a pivotal role in advancing numerous CMA-priority bills.
- Assemblymember Brian Maienschein consistently supported physician priorities throughout his legislative career. Notably, he advocated for increased Medi-Cal reimbursement rates through AB 366 (2015-16) and opposed AB 890 (2019-20), which altered nurse practitioner classifications and requirements for physician involvement.
- Assemblymember Miguel Santiago championed AB 457 (2021-22), ensuring patient choice in telehealth services by safeguarding access to their preferred healthcare providers.
A Collective Thank You to Departing Lawmakers
CMA also extends heartfelt appreciation to Senator Anthony Portantino, Senator Dave Min, Assemblymember Evan Low, Assemblymember Kevin McCarty, Assemblymember Laura Friedman, Assemblymember Marie Waldron, Senator Richard Roth, and Assemblymember Wendy Carillo. Furthermore, these lawmakers worked tirelessly to advance physician priorities and enhance healthcare delivery across California. Their dedication, coupled with their collaborative spirit, significantly contributed to creating a better healthcare system for all.
A Legacy That Continues to Inspire
By partnering with these outgoing lawmakers, CMA has not only improved health care access but also reduced administrative burdens and enhanced protections for both patients and providers. Moreover, their steadfast commitment has left an enduring legacy that will undoubtedly inspire the next generation of leaders. As new lawmakers take office, their groundwork serves as a foundation for continued progress and innovation in healthcare advocacy.
For more updates and information, visit Stanford Physician Advocate.