State Legislation: Bill Amendments · August 21, 2026 · Primary source
CA AB 1682: new version, 08/21/26 - Amended Senate
Summary
California AB 1682 was signed into law on September 27, 2026, as Chapter 541, Statutes of 2026. The law requires large group health care service plan contracts and health insurance policies issued, amended, or renewed on or after January 1, 2027, to cover scalp cooling when prescribed to reduce chemotherapy-induced alopecia. The law also expands Medi-Cal benefits to include scalp cooling, subject to utilization controls, medical necessity review, and federal approval.
What this may mean
California health plans and large group insurers must include scalp cooling coverage in contracts issued or renewed on or after January 1, 2027, and face criminal liability under Knox-Keene for willful violations. Medi-Cal coverage of scalp cooling is conditioned on federal financial participation and CMS approval, adding a federal waiver or SPA pathway for DHCS. Oncology service lines and health plan benefit administrators will need to update coverage policies, utilization management criteria, and benefit documents before the January 1, 2027 effective date.
Informational only. Not legal, medical, financial, or other professional advice. Always consult a qualified professional familiar with your specific facts before relying on any item.
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