CA AB1610

Requires regional centers to provide written information about appeal procedures and complaint processes to consumers and families during initial individualized family service plan (IFSP) meetings and annually thereafter.

Expands exceptions to the prohibition on regional centers purchasing nonrequired services to include respite services and other family support services, and makes the granting or denial of these services subject to appeal.

Requires regional centers to facilitate parent or caregiver participation in applied behavioral analysis (ABA) and intensive behavioral intervention services through additional supports and accommodations, and prohibits denying or delaying services based on failure to participate.

Repeals provisions related to the Individual Choice Budget and restrictions on purchasing nonmedical therapies, social recreation activities, and respite services, and establishes a task force by March 31, 2018 to develop a consumer needs-based budget allocation methodology.

Requires regional centers to pay for medically or dentally necessary services to implement a consumer's individual program plan during coverage pursuit periods, pending appeals, and until services commence from other sources like Medi-Cal or private insurance.