AB 1819 Summary

• Revises provisions for admission to acute crisis homes operated by the Department of Developmental Services, including acute crisis centers at Fairview and Sonoma Developmental Centers, replacing references to general developmental center admissions.

• Authorizes disclosure of confidential consumer information to regional center clients' rights advocates for purposes of providing advocacy services, unless the consumer objects on their own behalf.

• Modifies the Self-Determination Program to require federal funds be used to maximize participants' ability to direct their own lives and ensure successful program implementation, including costs for independent facilitators, budget development, training, and regional center operations.

• Requires regional centers to post on their websites procedures and assessment tools used to determine respite service levels for consumers.

• Appropriates $1,500,000 from the General Fund to the Department of Developmental Services to fund a contract with the Best Buddies Program, with funds available through June 30, 2019.