California Assembly Bill 489 Targets AI Misrepresentation in Health Care Practices

The Physician Assistant Board convened on August 15, 2025, to discuss significant legislative developments regarding the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare. The primary focus was Assembly Bill 489, which aims to prohibit AI systems from misrepresenting themselves as licensed health professionals.

Lisa Morawski, principal consultant to the Assembly Health Committee, presented the bill, emphasizing the need for clear regulations to prevent AI from misleading consumers. She highlighted concerns about AI systems that mimic health professionals, which could pose risks to patient safety. The bill seeks to ensure that AI cannot claim to be a licensed provider, thereby protecting consumers from potential harm.

Morawski noted that the bill has garnered widespread support from various stakeholders, including the California Medical Association and the Attorney General's office. The intent is to establish a deterrent against the misuse of AI in healthcare settings, ensuring transparency for patients regarding whether they are interacting with a human or an AI system.

Board members expressed concerns about the operational and financial burdens that enforcement of the bill might impose. Morawski reassured them that enforcement would remain within the board's discretion and that the bill would not require additional resources for enforcement actions. The Attorney General's office would handle broader enforcement issues, particularly against foreign entities that may violate these regulations.

Discussion also touched on the potential implications for physician assistants (PAs) using AI in their practice. Board legal counsel clarified that while the bill primarily addresses AI misrepresentation, it could also provide a framework for addressing negligence if a PA improperly utilizes AI tools in patient interactions.

The meeting concluded with a motion to support the bill, reflecting the board's commitment to consumer protection in the evolving landscape of healthcare technology. The board recognized the importance of establishing clear guidelines to navigate the intersection of AI and healthcare, ensuring that patient safety remains a priority.