CA AB1457

Appropriates an unspecified sum from the General Fund annually to the Regents of the University of California, commencing with fiscal year 2021-22, for creation, construction, and establishment of a public Level IV neonatal intensive care unit in Riverside County.

Establishes that the NICU shall be administered by the University of California and serve critically ill premature and full-term infants, high-risk pregnancies, and multiples requiring specialized care.

Finds that the Inland Empire (population over 4.2 million) currently lacks a UC-operated NICU, with only one Level II NICU in the region requiring higher-acuity patients to be transported to Orange County or Loma Linda.

Identifies significant geographical and logistical barriers for Riverside and San Bernardino County residents accessing distant NICUs and notes the shortage contributes to physician recruitment challenges in the region.

Requires a 2/3 vote for passage due to the appropriation of unspecified General Fund moneys.