In 2026, the Public Affairs program at the Cooperative of American Physicians (CAP) expanded its presence one lawmaker at a time in the California legislature. Backed by a strong collaborative team, including CAP staff, state and federal lobbyists, and a coalition-building political consultant, we have sharpened our approach to advocacy and deepened our engagement with state legislators on the issues that matter most to independent physicians. 

On May 13, 2026, Governor Gavin Newsom released the annual “May Revise” for the state’s 2026-2027 budget outlook. 

The May revision provides a more accurate revenue estimate than January’s initial budget proposal because it includes updated tax receipts from April. Recently, revenue forecasts have improved, with both the state Senate and Assembly citing a short-term revenue surge as a reason to avoid previously anticipated cuts, enabling the governor to state that the revised budget resolves the earlier projected deficits. 

The 2025–2026 legislative cycle has entered its second year amid rapid change in healthcare and mounting challenges. Legislators have introduced bills addressing patient privacy, the growing use of artificial intelligence in healthcare, and continued efforts to broaden scope of practice for non-physician providers.

The following is an overview of bill proposals currently moving through the legislative process. 

AB 2398 Alvarez (D - San Diego) — Practice of Medicine: Physician Graduate License Act