CA AB1975

Establishes medically supportive food and nutrition interventions as a covered benefit under Medi-Cal (both fee-for-service and managed care) beginning July 1, 2026, upon appropriation and federal approval.

Requires interventions to be covered when determined medically necessary by a health care provider or plan for qualifying chronic conditions including congestive heart failure, cancer, diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and renal disease.

Mandates interventions be provided for 12 weeks minimum or longer if deemed medically necessary, with nutrition supports paired with actual food provision.

Requires the Department of Health Care Services to define qualifying medical conditions, delineate covered services consistent with federal dietary guidelines, and ensure providers include culturally appropriate foods and match intervention intensity to patient acuity.

Establishes a medically supportive food and nutrition benefit stakeholder advisory workgroup with representation from food providers, small farms, health care providers, consumer advocates, and researchers to advise on benefit design, rates, provider standards, and provider education.