Governor Newsom Signs AB 2319 to Reduce Black Maternal Mortality Through Implicit Bias Training

SACRAMENTO, CA – Assemblywoman Lori D. Wilson proudly announces that Governor Gavin Newsom has signed AB 2319, a landmark piece of legislation aimed at reducing racial and ethnic disparities in maternal and infant healthcare outcomes by expanding and strengthening implicit bias training for healthcare providers in California. This bill, a priority for both the California Legislative Black Caucus and the California Legislative Women’s Caucus, marks a critical step toward addressing long-standing inequities in the healthcare system.

AB 2319 builds on existing laws requiring implicit bias training for healthcare providers involved in perinatal care. The bill introduces several key enhancements, including ensuring everyone receives equitable and unbiased care. AB 2319 mandates rigorous oversight mechanisms to ensure compliance, requiring healthcare facilities to report their adherence to training protocols to the Attorney General's office, with penalties for non-compliance.

“As a mother, I know firsthand the importance of feeling safe, respected, and well-cared-for during childbirth,” said Assemblywoman Lori D. Wilson. “AB 2319 ensures that all people—regardless of race receive equitable and unbiased care. This legislation not only strengthens the training healthcare providers receive but also holds our healthcare system accountable for providing the quality care all families deserve. I am confident this bill will save lives and improve outcomes for mothers and babies across California.”

Under AB 2319, healthcare providers must complete their initial implicit bias training by June 1, 2025, with new providers required to complete training within six months of their start date. Facilities are also required to submit annual proof of compliance to the Attorney General, who is authorized to impose civil penalties for violations and publicly report compliance data.

“It is painfully clear that we are not doing nearly enough for our mothers and children, especially those of color, as our country has the highest maternal mortality rate among developed countries,” said Attorney General Bonta. “No mother should ever have to fear for their health or the well-being of their child. Today’s law will take important steps to continue tackling maternal mortality head-on in California by making significant strides in changing a healthcare system rooted in institutional racism through transparency and accountability. I am deeply grateful to Assemblymembers Wilson and Weber, the entire Black Caucus, and the bill’s co-sponsors, for working with us and their commitment to fighting for equitable healthcare for all Californians.”

“When giving birth, individuals are asked to listen to their bodies and to share that information with the medical professionals caring for them,” said Assemblymember Akilah Weber, M.D. “Unfortunately, concerns surrounding discomfort or pain are not taken as seriously when they are made by persons of color, specifically black persons. We have lost too many individuals during the process of bringing life into this world – deaths that were avoidable. AB 2319 ensures that when a pregnant person speaks up, that message is heard by all staff providing perinatal care.

With the signing of AB 2319, California continues to lead in addressing racial disparities in healthcare, marking a significant advancement in maternal and infant health equity across the state.