One source of funding for pediatric trauma care could get a boost from a new bill being introduced in the state Senate, according to the author of SB 191, Sen. Alex Padilla (D-Pacoima).

“Pediatric trauma care is still not widely available in California,” Padilla said, referring to the 14 pediatric trauma care centers in the state. “SB 191 would provide essential funding for emergency care and pediatric trauma care throughout California.”

The pediatric trauma care bill makes permanent a temporary penalty imposed by counties on vehicle code violations, at a rate of $2 for every $10 in fines. That penalty is due to expire at the end of 2013. Padilla wants to eliminate a sunset date and make it permanent.

The bill has no cost to the general fund, Padilla said. About 15% of the assessment would be allocated directly for emergency pediatric trauma care, he said.

The legislation is one of several health care bills being introduced this month in Sacramento. Among the other new bills:

• Assembly member Richard Pan (D-Sacramento) yesterday introduced AB 314, legislation that would eliminate caps on coverage for students in the University of California system. Pan and a group of UC students plan to meet at the Capitol today to formally announce the legislation.
• Sen. Ed Hernandez (D-West Covina) said he will introduce legislation to expand the scope of practice for physician assistants and nurse practitioners, in a move to increase access to care in time for the start of expanded coverage under health care reform in 2014.
• Assembly Speaker John Peréz (D-Los Angeles) announced Monday he plans to use $10 million from the Assembly operating budget for state child care services.