Police can't block or delay medical care for people in their control
Officers may not deny, delay or obstruct medical evaluation or treatment for someone under their control, other than state prison inmates, when it is safe and a medical professional has been called or is there and willing to help. Denials when a medic is present must be documented within 72 hours.
Who it affects
Police and other law enforcement officers, and people they detain
When
This law takes effect on January 1, 2027. California laws take effect on January 1 of the year after they are signed, unless the law says otherwise.
- : Signed into law
- : This law takes effect
Official text
California AB 2318: Law enforcement: facilitating medical care.
On California Legislative Information. The official text is what counts; read it before you act.
Not legal advice. Plain-English summaries to help you find what changes and when. Not legal advice: read the official text, and ask a lawyer about your situation.