CA AB456

Establishes that the Dental Board of California's diversion program shall function as both a rehabilitative and monitoring program for licensees whose participation is part of probation or disciplinary action.

Changes investigation closure procedures so the board may (rather than must) close investigations of licensees who self-administer or possess controlled substances and successfully complete the diversion program, and authorizes reopening if the licensee withdraws or is terminated.

Requires diversion evaluation committees to report licensees denied admission to or terminated from the diversion program who pose a threat to public health and safety to the board's enforcement program, and authorizes use of diversion records in disciplinary or criminal proceedings.

Authorizes diversion evaluation committees to report licensees engaging in substantial noncompliance (with program manager concurrence) to the board's enforcement program, with diversion records usable for disciplinary purposes if the licensee fails to complete the program.

Expands closed session meeting authority for matters relating to licensees requesting or participating in diversion, and establishes circumstances where licensees waive confidentiality rights, including when filing lawsuits against the board or presenting diversion program information during disciplinary proceedings.