California Health and Human Services Data Exchange Framework.

Senator Menjivar's proposal to restructure California's health data exchange system would transfer oversight of the state's Health and Human Services Data Exchange Framework from the California Health and Human Services Agency to the Department of Health Care Access and Information (DHCAI) by January 2026. The legislation establishes new governance mechanisms while expanding requirements for healthcare entities to share patient information.

The bill creates the CalHHS Data Exchange Board, comprising 14 members including state officials, gubernatorial appointees, and legislative designees, to review and approve updates to data-sharing agreements and policies. This board would operate separately from an existing stakeholder advisory group that provides technical guidance on implementation. By July 2026, DHCAI must establish a process for designating qualified health information organizations as data-sharing intermediaries to facilitate information exchange between healthcare providers.

The measure broadens the scope of entities required to execute data-sharing agreements, while maintaining exemptions for smaller medical practices and certain facilities until 2026. The framework excludes the exchange of sensitive information related to abortion services, gender-affirming care, and immigration status. Healthcare organizations must comply with these requirements to maintain contracts with state agencies like the Department of Health Care Services and the Public Employees' Retirement System.

DHCAI would gain authority to designate additional categories of entities for mandatory participation, investigate disputes between participants, and publicly report non-compliant organizations. The department must submit annual legislative reports on agreement execution, consumer experiences, and technical assistance programs. While implementation actions are exempt from standard administrative procedures, the board must review proposed regulations before adoption.