About AB 876

AB 876 (Flora) was signed into law in 2025 and takes effect on January 1, 2026. The bill originally proposed major changes to nurse anesthetist scope of practice; however, after significant amendments, the final version does not expand independent practice.

What the law does:

• Clarifies and defines “anesthesia services” in California law.

• Confirms that nurse anesthetists must provide anesthesia under an order from a physician, dentist, or podiatrist.

• Allows hospitals and surgical facilities to continue requiring physician supervision and standardized procedures for anesthesia care.

• Removes earlier language that would have expanded scope, allowed independent practice, or authorized the use of titles such as “nurse anesthesiologist”.

What it does not do:

• It does not grant independent practice authority to nurse anesthetists.

• It does not change current state rules regarding prescribing or DEA licensure.

• It does not remove physicians from the anesthesia care process.

 CSA supported amendments that ensured patient care continues within a physician-led framework and will remain engaged as AB 876 is implemented.