California Assembly reviews AB 481 to address clinical lab staffing shortages

The California Senate's Business, Professions and Economic Development Committee convened on July 7, 2025, to discuss Assembly Bill 481, a proposed measure aimed at addressing staffing shortages in clinical laboratories. The bill seeks to allow federally qualified lab personnel to assist licensed laboratory staff with specific tasks, thereby improving the efficiency and turnaround time of lab testing for patients.

The bill's proponents argue that it is essential for enhancing the capacity of clinical laboratories, particularly in light of the ongoing workforce shortages that have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Supporters, including representatives from the California Clinical Laboratory Association and Quest Diagnostics, emphasized that AB 481 would enable labs to better manage increasing workloads while maintaining high standards of patient safety and testing accuracy. They highlighted that the bill includes provisions for stringent supervision by licensed professionals, ensuring that unlicensed personnel can only assist with tasks under direct oversight.

However, the bill has faced opposition from unions representing clinical lab scientists and medical lab technicians. Critics raised concerns about the lack of specific supervision ratios, which could potentially lead to unlicensed personnel working in environments where they are inadequately supervised. They also argued for the necessity of standardized training protocols, such as phlebotomy certification, to ensure that all personnel handling patient samples are adequately prepared to prevent errors that could lead to misdiagnoses.

During the meeting, committee members expressed their support for the bill while also voicing concerns about the potential risks associated with allowing unlicensed personnel to perform certain tasks. Some senators pointed out the importance of balancing the need for timely lab results with the imperative of maintaining high-quality healthcare standards.

As the discussion progressed, it became clear that while there is a consensus on the need to address staffing shortages in clinical labs, significant concerns remain regarding the training and supervision of unlicensed personnel. The committee plans to continue refining the bill, with the hope of addressing these issues before it moves forward to the Appropriations Committee.

The outcome of this bill could have a profound impact on the healthcare landscape in California, particularly in improving access to timely diagnostic testing for patients, while also ensuring that safety and quality standards are upheld. The committee's ongoing discussions will be crucial in shaping the final version of AB 481 and determining its implications for both healthcare providers and patients across the state.