New healthcare-related laws, effective January 1, 2026, focus on increased regulatory oversight of healthcare transactions, limits on corporate influence, prescription drug cost controls, and guardrails on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in clinical settings.

California physicians face increased malpractice exposure under AB 35, which raises damage caps and expands attorney fees. The Cooperative of American Physicians (CAP) offers tailored medical malpractice coverage through its Mutual Protection Trust, helping physicians navigate this evolving legal landscape.

Last month, the Physician Association of California (PAC) commended Governor Gavin Newsom for signing Assembly Bill 1041 (Bennett), a PAC-sponsored bill that improves patient access to care and boosts small and independent practices by streamlining the physician credentialing process.

On October 15, CAP proudly hosted the inaugural Advocacy in Action Legislative Series—a dynamic, in-person event designed to connect physicians with key state legislators shaping healthcare policy in California.

After months of legislative efforts to address physician Medicare payment reform, key provisions were finally included in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA).