Advocacy

The signing of Assembly Bill 2711 and Senate Bill 997 by Governor Gavin Newsom marks a transformative moment for California’s schools, ushering in a new era where drug- related infractions will be addressed through harm reduction and a public health approach rather than ineffective punitive measures such as suspensions and expulsions. The Open Doors Training website will serve as a central hub for information, providing updates on the development of the training program, resources for those working with youth, and avenues for community involvement.

The California Council of Community Behavioral Health Agencies (CBHA), The California Alliance of Child and Family Services (CA Alliance), and California Association of Alcohol and Drug Program Executives (CAADPE) express deep disappointment following Governor Gavin Newsom’s veto of Assembly Bill AB 1470. This bill, championed by author Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva, sought to simplify and standardize documentation requirements for behavioral health services provided under our State’s Medi-Cal program.

This exciting group of legislative advancements reflect a growing commitment to improving behavioral health care and expanding access to critical services. A major step towards integrated care as been signed into law, and significant advances have been made in documentation reform, youth overdose-prevention, and other areas.

In the California State Capitol, the recent deadline for bill introductions has sparked a wave of legislative proposals, with nearly 2,000 bills set for consideration this session. Amidst this flurry, a series of impactful measures have emerged, each targeting different facets of Substance Use Disorder (SUD) and its management—from student safety and workplace readiness to the support of treatment services. Here’s a closer look at these initiatives and the changes they propose.