A bill sponsored by the California Medical Association (CMA) aimed at addressing risks linked to artificial intelligence in health care has cleared the state Legislature and is now awaiting Governor Gavin Newsom’s signature.
Assembly Bill 489, introduced by Assemblymember Mia Bonta, would ban the misrepresentation of AI systems as licensed medical professionals. The legislation also gives state health professions boards, such as the Medical Board of California and the Board of Registered Nursing, clear authority to enforce title protections for health care workers. The intent is to ensure that technological advances in health care are implemented in ways that protect patient safety and maintain trust between patients and clinicians.
“Patient trust is the cornerstone of medicine, and AB 489 helps preserve that trust in an era of rapidly advancing technology,” said CMA President Shannon Udovic-Constant, M.D. “By ensuring patients know when they are interacting with artificial intelligence systems rather than a licensed clinician, this bill safeguards transparency, accountability and the integrity of medical care. CMA thanks Assemblymember Bonta for championing this vital protection.”
As use of AI expands within health care, reports have emerged about chatbots presenting themselves as licensed professionals and giving potentially unsafe or incorrect advice. Supporters say AB 489 introduces important measures to make sure AI tools are used responsibly and with transparency.
The bill received strong bipartisan support, passing with 39 yes votes in the Senate and 79 yes votes in the Assembly. According to CMA leaders, its passage highlights their focus on making sure new technologies improve—rather than compromise—the quality and safety of patient care.
