Valley Fever Screening and Prevention Act of 2025.

Senator Hurtado's Valley Fever Screening and Prevention Act establishes mandatory screening protocols and eliminates cost barriers for valley fever detection in California's high-risk regions. The State Department of Public Health must identify areas with elevated infection rates by March 2027, provide standardized screening protocols to local health departments, and distribute evidence-based training materials to healthcare providers.

Beginning January 2028, healthcare providers in designated high-incidence regions must screen adult patients for valley fever during primary care visits, with exceptions for emergency care, prior screening, or lack of patient consent. The legislation requires providers to offer diagnostic testing when screening results warrant further examination and provide appropriate care or referrals for positive cases. Health plans and insurers cannot impose cost-sharing requirements for valley fever screening and testing in these regions, though high-deductible plans may maintain cost-sharing if required by federal regulations.

Local health departments in affected areas must conduct public outreach about valley fever risks and prevention strategies while reporting confirmed cases to state officials. The Department of Public Health will evaluate the program's implementation beginning January 2030 and submit biennial reports to the Legislature. Healthcare providers maintain discretion in screening decisions and receive protection from related disciplinary actions when exercising professional judgment.