California Enacts AB 144 to Modernize Vaccine Coverage in Health Insurance

California Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 144 (AB 144), a legislative measure supported by the California Medical Association (CMA) to update and align state health insurance coverage policies with evidence-based vaccination standards.

The bill aims to ensure continued access to life-saving vaccines for Californians by reflecting the latest recommendations from authoritative bodies such as the federal Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP).\n\nThe CMA highlighted the importance of AB 144 in maintaining vaccine availability and coverage in the face of evolving federal guidelines, particularly as the ACIP convenes to review immunization recommendations ahead of the winter virus season. The legislative update positions California to safeguard public health by reinforcing insurance mandates tied to vaccination coverage.\n\nThe CMA's endorsement of the West Coast Health Alliance's unified science-based vaccine recommendations complements the state's efforts to prepare for seasonal viral threats. These collaborative steps between state policymakers, medical associations, and regional health alliances underscore a comprehensive approach to bolstering immunization coverage and accessibility.\n\nAB 144 includes provisions critical to health insurance compliance that affect payer and provider obligations, enhancing regulatory clarity on vaccine-related coverage requirements.

This legislative action reflects ongoing efforts to minimize barriers for patients seeking immunizations, supporting disease prevention and health security.\n\nThe CMA continues to engage with legislative processes and federal agencies on various health policy issues, including prior authorization reform and protection of nonprofit hospitals, positioning itself as a key stakeholder in shaping healthcare regulatory frameworks in California. Ongoing dialogues with insurers and regulators aim to align policy with clinical and public health priorities to optimize patient care delivery.