LOS BANOS, CA (October 14, 2025) — A law inspired in part by a Los Banos incident is now reshaping how hospitals in California protect patients during sensitive medical exams.
Assemblywoman Esmeralda Soria’s Medical Safety Chaperone Act (AB 849) was signed into law this month by Governor Gavin Newsom. The bill mandates that hospitals and imaging centers notify patients that a chaperone is available upon request during ultrasounds of sensitive areas, and requires that chaperones be trained to recognize and respond to inappropriate conduct.
The legislation was prompted in part by Celi Gonzalez’s allegation that, during a 2020 ultrasound at a Los Banos hospital, she was sexually assaulted by the technician — an incident frequently cited in support of the bill. Gonzalez is quoted as saying, “Five years ago, a properly trained chaperone could have protected me.”
Soria, whose district includes Merced County and the Central Valley, said the law is intended to strengthen patient protection in medical settings. The bill advanced with support from survivors and drew backing from legislators after multiple people came forward with similar allegations of misconduct.
Under AB 849, healthcare facilities must document that patients were informed of chaperone availability and ensure that chaperones are trained to intervene when needed. Supporters say the law bolsters accountability in settings where patients may feel vulnerable.
