Tulare Times

Governor Newsom has signed Assembly Bill 2293, introduced by Assemblyman Mathis in 2024. The bill allows a 501(c)(3) organization to join a Joint Powers Agreement (JPA) for the purpose of providing healthcare services.

Assemblyman Mathis expressed his support for the legislation with a statement following its signing: “In allowing a 501(c)(3) to join a JPA, this measure expands healthcare access for Californians without incurring any further debt." He emphasized that while 501(c)(3) healthcare organizations offer significant benefits to local communities, they have been largely excluded from forming or joining JPAs. This exclusion is considered problematic due to the current challenges faced by California's healthcare system, which struggles with maintaining operations in various regions.

Mathis highlighted specific issues in the Central Valley, where hospital closures and an increase in medically underserved areas have been observed. He noted that AB 2293 replicates an existing mechanism allowing a 501(c)(3) organization to partner with a JPA when providing services to zero-emission transportation systems and applies it to healthcare services. "In doing so," he stated, "this bill provides a flexible solution to increase healthcare services within the state."

He also extended his gratitude towards Governor Newsom and his legislative colleagues for their action on this measure.