California Attorney General Rob Bonta today issued a bulletin to all California healthcare providers, service plans, and contractors summarizing their new responsibilities under Senate Bill 81 (SB 81). Authored by State Senator Jesse Arreguín (D-Oakland), SB 81 amends the Confidentiality of Medical Information Act (CMIA) and the Health and Safety Code to designate the immigration status of patients as protected medical data and requires healthcare facilities to designate non-public areas where access for immigration enforcement purposes is limited. SB 81 was signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom and took effect on September 20, 2025.
“Immigrants deserve to receive the healthcare they need without fear. Thanks to legislation like SB 81, California is taking action to protect the personal information of immigrants receiving healthcare, and hospitals remain safe spaces to seek care without the threat of immigration enforcement,” said Attorney General Bonta. “Our information bulletin aims to remind healthcare providers of their new obligations under SB 81. We expect full compliance with this vital new law and will continue to support and defend the rights of California’s immigrant communities.”