CA SB686

Establishes the Alcohol and Other Drug Counselor Licensing and Certification Act, creating three credential levels: Registered (RAODC), Certified (CAODC), and Licensed (LAODC) alcohol and other drug counselors, administered by the State Department of Alcohol and Drug Programs beginning January 1, 2012.

Requires applicants to complete specified education hours (minimum 315 classroom hours plus practicum for certification), work experience requirements (2,080 hours for certification; 3,120 hours for licensure), pass examinations, and submit to criminal background checks.

Establishes an Advisory Committee on Alcohol and Other Drug Counselor Training, Certification, and Licensing with seven members to review implementation, provide recommendations on ethics and discipline, and issue biennial reports to the department and Legislature.

Creates the Alcohol and Other Drug Counselor License Fund through fees assessed to applicants and Counselor Preparation and Testing Organizations (CPTOs), with maximum fees ranging from $5 for registration to $125 for initial licensure.

Amends Penal Code Section 11165.7 and Welfare and Institutions Code Section 15630 to designate alcohol and other drug counselors licensed, certified, or registered under this part as mandated reporters for child abuse and elder/dependent adult abuse.