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SB 297

Valley Fever Screening and Prevention Act of 2025.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Melissa Hurtado

SB 297 mandates Valley Fever screening and prevention protocols in California to reduce fungal infection rates among at-risk populations through healthcare provider requirements and state agency coordination.

August 29 hearing: Held in committee and under submission.
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Bill Summary · SB 297

Legislative bill overview

SB 297 establishes screening and prevention protocols for Valley Fever (coccidioidomycosis), a fungal infection endemic to California's San Joaquin Valley and other arid regions. The bill requires healthcare providers and relevant state agencies to implement testing, diagnostic, and prevention measures for populations at risk of exposure to the fungus that causes the disease.

Why is this important

Valley Fever affects thousands of Californians annually, with symptoms ranging from mild respiratory illness to severe, life-threatening complications. Early detection and prevention measures can reduce severe cases, hospitalizations, and long-term health complications, particularly among agricultural workers, construction workers, and residents in endemic areas who face occupational or environmental exposure.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: Mandatory screening programs may impose significant expenses on healthcare systems and state agencies, raising questions about funding mechanisms and who bears the financial burden
  • Scope of screening requirements: Disagreement may exist over which populations should be screened, how frequently, and whether screening should be universal or targeted to high-risk groups
  • Regulatory burden: Healthcare providers may resist additional reporting, testing, and documentation requirements, citing administrative complexity and resource constraints

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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