A Look at California’s SB 823

Legislation Regarding Alcohol and Drug Treatment Abuse Recovery and Treatment Facilities

Former California Governor Jerry Brown signed into law Senate Bill No. 823.  This legislation requires the adoption of minimum standards of care for alcohol and drug treatment facilities.  It was signed into law on September 26, 2018.  The law requires the State Department of Health Care to “adopt specified standards” for alcohol and drug treatment facilities.  Currently, state law requires that all recovery or treatment facilities be licensed by the department, but the new law would standardize requirements for these facilities.  According to the bill, regulations must be adopted by January 1, 2023.

As a result of the legislation California’s Health and Safety Code was amended by adding Section 11834.015 (a) and (b).  The first subsection requires the State Department of Health Care to adopt the American Society of Addiction Medicine treatment criteria, or its equivalent.  These criteria are to be used as the minimum standard of care for alcohol and drug recovery and treatment facilities.

Governor Brown also signed Senate Bill No. 1228 prohibiting patient-brokering or receiving remuneration or anything of value for the referral of a person seeking treatment.

These laws go a far way in regulating alcohol and drug treatment facilities.  Be sure to check back for additional information regarding minimum standards of care and additional requirements.