California pet owners will soon benefit from strengthened pet insurance regulations and expanded access to low-cost spay and neuter services, thanks to two bills recently signed into law by Gov. Gavin Newsom.
Senate Bill 1217, authored by state Sen. Steven Glazer (D-Orinda), mandates increased transparency from pet insurers. According to a press statement from the Governor’s Office, the new law will require insurers to provide clearer information regarding their coverage, as well as any premium changes based on a pet’s age or location.
Pet insurance often operates differently than human health insurance; many policies require pet owners to pay for procedures upfront and then seek reimbursement. Moreover, costs and restrictions can vary widely depending on the breed and pre-existing medical conditions.
SB 1217 addresses these concerns by requiring insurers to explicitly disclose whether a policy excludes coverage for pre-existing conditions, hereditary disorders, congenital defects, or chronic conditions. It also mandates a clear distinction between wellness programs and insurance policies. Wellness programs, which may cover services like dental cleanings or surgical extractions, are typically not covered by standard insurance plans. The new law prohibits insurers from marketing wellness programs as pet insurance and requires separate marketing materials for each.
In addition to the pet insurance reform, Gov. Newsom signed SB 1233, introduced by Sen. Scott Wilk (R-Santa Clarita). This bill authorizes California veterinary medical schools to develop a high-quality, high-volume certification program for spay and neuter procedures. The goal is to expand access to low- and no-cost spay and neuter services throughout the state.
