CA AB2234

Amends Penal Code Section 1170.9 to expand mental health treatment options for military veterans convicted of crimes by allowing courts to order participation in treatment programs for post-traumatic stress disorder, substance abuse, or psychological problems from combat service.

Creates a separate eligibility category in Welfare and Institutions Code Section 5600.3 for adults 60 years or older with serious mental disorders, establishing a distinct definition of functional impairment requiring substantial impairment in at least two life areas (independent living, relationships, employment, basic living skills, money management, self-care, or physical condition).

Maintains existing functional impairment definition for adults ages 18-59 as being substantially impaired in independent living, social relationships, vocational skills, or physical condition.

Amends Sections 5600.6 and 5600.7 to ensure minimum array of mental health services are available to both adult and older adult target populations meeting eligibility criteria.

Establishes state mandate reimbursement procedures through the Commission on State Mandates for any costs to local agencies resulting from expanded mental health service eligibility.