CA AB2185

Requires domestic violence victims to have access to free medical evidentiary examinations through Local Sexual Assault Response Teams (SART), Sexual Assault Forensic Examiner (SAFE) teams, or other qualified medical examiners.

Mandates that medical forensic forms include documentation of strangulation history and evidence, with forms available in electronic format and as part of patient medical records.

Requires hospitals and medical facilities to develop written confidentiality policies for medical evidentiary examination reports and implement systems by July 1, 2023 to facilitate report release as authorized by law.

Prohibits charging examination costs directly or indirectly to victims, with state funding subject to legislative appropriation and a 60-day reimbursement process established by the Office of Emergency Services within one year of initial appropriation.

Requires each county's board of supervisors to designate an entity to approve SART/SAFE teams or qualified examiners for reimbursement and permits victims to have a qualified social worker, victim advocate, or support person present during examinations.