Which Hospitals Must Comply with California’s New AB 2975 Law
California’s Assembly Bill 2975 (AB 2975), signed into law in September 2024, is set to elevate hospital security by mandating the implementation of weapons detection screening at designated entrances. The law aims to enhance safety and reduce violence in healthcare settings.
Here’s a breakdown of which hospitals will be required to comply with this new regulation, what’s required, and how they can start preparing ahead of the 2027 deadline.
Hospitals Affected by AB 2975
Hospitals Required to Have Weapons Detection
Hospitals licensed under Section 1250(a), (b), or (f) of the California Health and Safety Code are covered. These include:
- General Acute Care Hospitals – Facilities providing 24-hour inpatient medical, surgical, obstetric, or emergency care.
- Acute Psychiatric Hospitals – Facilities providing 24-hour inpatient psychiatric care.
- Special Hospitals – Facilities offering specialized care (e.g., rehabilitation, pediatrics, or specialty treatment)
Hospitals Exempt from Weapons Detection Requirements
The following hospitals are exempt from the automatic weapons detection requirement (but still must maintain a workplace violence prevention plan):
- Small and rural hospitals (as defined in Section 130076(d) of the Health and Safety Code).
- Hospitals with space limitations that make larger detection devices noncompliant with Title 24 building standards.
- Long-term care or inpatient rehabilitation hospitals that provide extended medical or rehabilitative services (federally certified as long-term care or inpatient rehab).
In short, most full-service hospitals, emergency care hospitals, and psychiatric hospitals in California must install and operate weapons detection systems. This information is provided as a general guide and does not constitute legal advice; hospitals should consult legal counsel to determine how these requirements apply to their specific facility and operations.
What AB 2975 Requires
Under the new law, affected hospitals must adopt several key security and compliance measures:
- Install Weapons Detection Systems
Hospitals must place automated detection devices at designated entrances to screen for firearms and other weapons. - Assign Trained Personnel
Only trained, non-clinical staff may operate these systems. Training must total at least eight hours and cover topics such as equipment use, de-escalation, and implicit bias awareness. - Offer Alternative Screening Options
Hospitals must provide reasonable alternatives for visitors or patients who decline screening to ensure compliance with patient rights laws. - Create Response Protocols
Clear procedures must be in place for how to respond when a weapon is detected, including coordination with security and law enforcement. - Post Signage and Notifications
Entrances must feature visible signage explaining the screening process and reassuring patients that emergency medical care cannot be denied based on screening refusal.
Preparing for Compliance
The Cal/OSHA Standards Board will finalize the details of AB 2975 by March 1, 2027, but hospitals are encouraged to start preparing now. Recommended steps include:
- Conducting a security risk assessment to identify all public access points
- Evaluating available weapons detection technologies for efficiency and cost
- Allocating budget and resources for system installation and staff training
- Running pilot programs to test screening workflows
- Establishing internal policies and communication plans for smooth implementation
Early preparation will help hospitals avoid compliance delays and create safer, more secure environments for everyone entering their facilities.
Why It Matters
Workplace violence in healthcare continues to rise at an alarming rate, with healthcare workers facing rates five times higher than other industries, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023). By requiring hospitals to use weapons detection screening, AB 2975 takes a proactive step toward protecting the state’s healthcare workers and visitors.
As the compliance deadline approaches, hospitals that act early will not only meet regulatory requirements but also lead the way in advancing hospital safety standards across California.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Laws and regulations, including AB 2975 may change, and their application can vary based on specific circumstances. Hospitals and healthcare organizations should consult qualified legal counsel to ensure compliance with all applicable state and federal requirements.
CEIA OPENGATE: Reliable Security for Hospitals
Hospitals need security solutions that protect patients, staff, and visitors without disrupting care. CEIA OPENGATE delivers fast, accurate threat detection in a non-intrusive, easy-to-use system.
● High-Sensitivity Threat Detection: Meets established international and federal detection standards, providing the highest level of security across all applications.
● User-Friendly Operation: Features simple GO/NO GO indicators and requires minimal training for school or security personnel, allowing for easy operation and more secure entry points.
● Durable & Low-Maintenance: Advanced technology designed for continuous, reliable operation. With CEIA OPENGATE, hospitals can strengthen security protocols while maintaining a welcoming and safer healthcare environment.
Connect with us here to learn more about OPENGATE and other detection options.
Sources
- LegiScan. (2024). AB 2975 – Hospital Safety: Weapons Detection Screening. https://legiscan.com/CA/text/AB2975
- California Hospital Association. (2024). AB 2975 FAQs. ab-2975-faqshttps://calhospital.org/file/ab-2975-faqs?
- Justia. (2024). California Health & Safety Code § 1250. https://law.justia.com/codes/california/code-hsc/division-2/chapter-2/article-1/section-1250/
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023). Injuries, Illnesses, and Fatalities in Healthcare Occupations.