Using AI tools for charting, chat or patient questions? California AB 1979 was signed into law and starts January 1, 2027. It says AI can't do licensed-only work, and a licensed provider makes the call.
By Amber Bechthold, Founder & CEO of Aesthetic Compliance Experts · Esthetician with 25 years in medicine and aesthetics · Last reviewed October 27, 2026
Key Facts at a Glance
Status: Passed · takes effect soon
State: California
Law: AB 1979 (Chapter 854, Statutes of 2026)
Signed: fall 2026
Takes effect: January 1, 2027
What it does: AI can't do licensed-only work or direct unlicensed staff doing licensed work
Who it affects: clinics, doctor offices, group practices and businesses that offer health chatbots
What Changed
No AI doing licensed work: clinics can't use AI for work only a licensed person may do.
No AI supervising: clinics can't use AI to direct or supervise unlicensed staff doing licensed work.
Providers keep their judgment: when AI helps, licensed providers make the call.
Health chatbots: consumer health chatbots must protect medical information the way providers do.
Why This Matters in a Med Spa
More med spas use AI for intake, chat, scheduling and notes. This law draws a clear line: AI can help, but a licensed person decides, and AI can't stand in for a supervisor.
Does This Apply to My Clinic?
If you practice in California and use any AI tools, it's worth a look. If your clinic is in another state, this law doesn't apply to you.
What the law doesn't spell out
What counts as "reasonable steps"
This new part does not require a patient notice
This part lists no fine, but licensing boards can act
The January 1, 2027 start date comes from California's standard start date for regular laws
Ask the Medical Board of California or your attorney.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does California AB 1979 take effect?
January 1, 2027.
Can my med spa still use AI?
Yes. The law doesn't ban AI. It says AI can't do licensed-only work or direct unlicensed staff doing licensed work.
Do I have to tell patients we use AI?
This new part of the law does not require a patient notice.
Is there a fine?
This part lists no fine. Licensing boards can act.
Sources
LegiScan: California AB 1979 (2025-2026), Chapter 854
California Health Care Foundation: Newsom approves 3 health care AI bills, vetoes 2
What This Means for Your Clinic
If your clinic is in California, the areas this touches are:
Any AI tools your clinic uses: chat, intake, scheduling or charting
Who makes clinical decisions when AI is involved
How unlicensed staff are directed, and by whom
Our clients get the step-by-step plan. Questions about your own setup go to the Medical Board of California or your attorney.
Keep reading
California "Reef Safe" Sunscreen Law (AB 1744) Starts Jan. 1, 2027
California SB 1302: RNs Can Follow NP Orders Starting Jan. 1, 2027
Need a legal answer for your clinic?
ACE works with Doris Dike, Esq., founder of Dike Law Group PLLC, our outside legal counsel. If you need an attorney to look at how this applies to your clinic, her office can help. Her office includes an attorney licensed in California.
Phone: (972) 290-1031
Office: 6160 Warren Parkway, Suite 100, Frisco, TX 75034
Book a call: dklawg.com/contact
Have questions about how this applies to your clinic? Book a free 30-minute Gap Analysis Call or text us anytime at (817) 442-7484.
This post is educational. It is not legal advice, and requirements differ by state and by practice. Confirm how any change applies to your clinic with your own attorney or your licensing board.
