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Well, happy new year! The California Acupuncture Board has posted the updated “Laws and Regulations Relating to the Practice of Acupuncture” booklet (January 2026 version), reflecting new and amended laws effective in 2026.
- AB 45 (Bauer-Kahan, Chapter 134, Statutes of 2025) Privacy: health data: location and research – Effective 1/1/2026
Effective January 1, 2026, new laws enhance health data privacy protections, particularly for individuals seeking reproductive health services. These laws prohibit the collection, use, or sharing of personal data near family planning centers and ban geofencing around in-person health care providers.
They also restrict the release of identifiable medical research records in response to legal actions from states or countries that oppose abortion rights. Individuals may file civil lawsuits for violations, and the Attorney General is authorized to enforce penalties, with proceeds supporting the California Reproductive Justice and Freedom Fund.
- AB 489 (Bonta, Chapter 615, Statutes of 2025) Health care professions: deceptive terms or letters: artificial intelligence – Effective 1/1/2026
New laws regulate the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and generative AI (GenAI) in health care professions. They prohibit developers and users of AI or GenAI systems from using protected titles or language that falsely implies a licensed health care professional is involved.
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To break it down, if AI, or generative AI, is used in a way that “sounds like” a licensed professional is providing the care/advice/report, the law tightens enforcement and makes it easier for the licensing boards to act.
Licensing boards are also authorized to seek injunctions or restraining orders to enforce these provisions.
- SB 470 (Laird, Chapter 222, Statutes of 2025) Bagley-Keen Open Meeting Act: teleconferencing – Effective 1/1/2026
Amendments to law extend existing teleconference rules for state and advisory body meetings through January 1, 2030. These laws continue to allow remote participation under specific conditions, such as requiring a majority of members to be physically present at a shared location, on-camera participation during public sessions, and limited use of private locations. They also maintain requirements for public access and transparency in teleconferenced meetings.
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions about a medical condition or treatment.
