Bill
SB 257
The PARENT Act allows pregnant individuals in California to enroll in or change health plans outside standard periods, ensuring timely access to necessary care.
Bill Number: SB 257
Title: PARENT Act
Introduced: February 3, 2025
Status: In Senate; consideration of Governor's veto pending
The PARENT Act aims to amend existing health care regulations in California by designating pregnancy as a triggering event for enrollment or changes to health benefit plans. This change is intended to enhance access to health care for pregnant individuals, ensuring they can obtain necessary coverage during a critical time.
The primary purpose of the PARENT Act is to provide pregnant individuals with the ability to enroll in or modify their health benefit plans outside of the standard enrollment periods. This is particularly important as pregnancy can significantly impact health needs and coverage requirements.
Triggering Event: The bill specifically adds pregnancy to the list of events that allow individuals to enroll in or change their health benefit plans. This means that if a person becomes pregnant, they can adjust their health coverage accordingly.
Regulatory Framework: The PARENT Act modifies Section 1399.849 of the Health and Safety Code, which governs health care service plans and their enrollment processes. The amendment ensures that health care service plans must comply with this new provision.
Criminal Penalty for Non-compliance: A willful violation of this provision by a health care service plan would be classified as a crime, thereby imposing a state-mandated local program.
No Reimbursement Requirement: The bill states that no reimbursement is required for local agencies or school districts for costs mandated by this act, as specified by the California Constitution.
Affected Individuals: The PARENT Act primarily affects pregnant individuals who may need to change their health coverage due to their pregnancy. It aims to provide them with timely access to necessary health services and support.
Health Care Providers: Health care service plans will need to adjust their enrollment processes to accommodate this new triggering event, ensuring compliance with the amended regulations.
Legislative Journey: The bill has passed through various legislative stages, including amendments and committee reviews. It was enrolled and presented to the Governor on September 17, 2025, but was vetoed on October 13, 2025. The Senate is currently considering the Governor's veto.
Voting: The bill has received majority support throughout its legislative journey, indicating strong backing from lawmakers.
The PARENT Act represents a significant step towards improving health care access for pregnant individuals in California. By allowing pregnancy to be recognized as a triggering event for health plan enrollment, the bill seeks to address the unique health care needs of expectant parents, ensuring they receive timely and appropriate care.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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