California Governor Gavin Newsom has recently made headlines by signing several significant bills aimed at transforming healthcare for residents, especially those facing infertility and families supporting loved ones struggling with substance abuse.
One of the standout provisions of this legislation requires insurance companies to offer coverage for infertility treatments. This new law mandates that major insurance providers cover not only the diagnosis and treatment but also fertility services for infertility, allowing for up to three egg retrievals and unlimited embryo transfers. Importantly, the definition of “infertility” has been broadened to include individuals who cannot conceive without medical help, actively supporting members of the LGBTQ+ community and same-sex couples aspiring to start families.
Set to take effect in July 2025, this legislation is poised to make fertility treatments and in vitro fertilization more financially accessible for millions of Californians.
In a significant public health measure, the new law also prohibits manufacturers from using per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in tampons. By January 1, 2029, all products must adhere to this regulation, and manufacturers will be required to provide comprehensive product details and register with the California Department of Toxic Substances Control by July 1, 2029, with penalties for non-compliance.
Regarding Alzheimer’s care, a comprehensive package of twelve bills has been introduced to improve services for the increasing number of patients and their families. Law enforcement officers are set to receive training on how to effectively interact with individuals suffering from Alzheimer’s, autism, and dementia. Additionally, healthcare professionals specializing in geriatric care will be mandated to pursue ongoing education in geriatric pathology and dementia care.
The state is also expanding treatment options for individuals grappling with severe substance abuse issues. New legislation now allows mental health rehabilitation centers and psychiatric facilities to offer 24-hour inpatient care for those facing serious drug addiction challenges, thereby enabling more flexible management strategies to expand the number of available treatment beds.
Finally, when parents are unable to provide sufficient breast milk for their newborns, pasteurized donor breast milk often becomes the best nutritional alternative for underweight infants. California’s new law now requires commercial insurance companies to classify donor breast milk as a necessity, aligning it with Medi-Cal standards to better assist families in need of this vital resource.