Physician assistants and podiatrists.

Assembly Member Berman's legislation extends the operation of California's Podiatric Medical Board and Physician Assistant Board through January 1, 2030, while implementing changes to fees, regulatory oversight, and professional classifications. The bill removes the Physician Assistant Board's authority over training program regulation and eliminates the requirement that podiatrist license applicants pass qualifying examinations within the previous 10 years.

The legislation adjusts various fees for both professions. For podiatrists, the biennial license renewal fee increases from $1,318 to $1,900, while establishing a $100 fee for duplicate certificates and removing certain administrative fees. Physician assistant fees see similar increases, with the application fee rising from $25 to $80, initial license and renewal fees increasing to $500, and higher charges for delinquency and verification services.

The bill establishes that podiatrists cannot be classified as ancillary providers or allied health professionals in healthcare settings or insurance reimbursement structures. It adds "podiatric surgeon" to the list of protected professional titles, making unauthorized use a misdemeanor offense. Upon the scheduled 2030 sunset date, both regulatory boards will undergo review by the appropriate legislative policy committees.