California Senate supports SB 497 to protect transgender healthcare data privacy

On June 17, 2025, the California Assembly Judiciary Committee convened to discuss significant legislation aimed at protecting transgender individuals and their access to healthcare. Central to the meeting was Senate Bill 497 (SB 497), which seeks to enhance the confidentiality of sensitive prescription data, particularly concerning gender-affirming care.

The Cures database, California's prescription drug monitoring program, has come under scrutiny due to its lack of safeguards. Currently, testosterone prescription data can be accessed by law enforcement without a warrant in California, raising concerns about potential misuse of this information against transgender individuals. Advocates argue that this lack of protection could lead to harassment and discrimination, particularly as anti-trans legislation proliferates across the country.

Mari Roby from Trans Family Support Services emphasized the urgent need for SB 497, stating that the bill would prevent the weaponization of personal health information. Roby highlighted the alarming trend of over 130,000 transgender individuals migrating to California in search of safety and affirming healthcare, as many states enact restrictive laws against gender-affirming care. The bill aims to reinforce California's status as a sanctuary state for transgender people, ensuring that their identities and healthcare choices are protected.

Craig Polstra from Equality California echoed these sentiments, noting that SB 497 would make unauthorized access to sensitive prescription data a misdemeanor and prohibit healthcare providers from cooperating with out-of-state efforts to penalize individuals for receiving legal care in California. He stressed the urgency of the bill in light of recent federal actions targeting gender-affirming care.

The meeting also featured opposition testimony, with critics arguing that SB 497 undermines parental rights and state authority. They claimed that the bill could encourage minors to seek medical transition without parental consent and questioned the efficacy of medical interventions for transgender youth.

Despite the opposition, the overwhelming support from various advocacy groups and healthcare organizations underscored the bill's significance in safeguarding the rights and health of transgender individuals in California. The committee's discussions highlighted the broader implications of SB 497, not only for the state's transgender community but also as a statement against the rising tide of anti-trans legislation nationwide.

As the committee moves forward, the outcome of SB 497 will be closely watched, reflecting California's commitment to protecting vulnerable populations and reinforcing its role as a leader in LGBTQ+ rights.