CA AB2101

Establishes a pilot program, administered by the Director of Health Care Services, operating until January 1, 2024, in which caregiver resource centers (CRCs) select, train, and place volunteers to provide in-home respite care to persons age 65 or older or those with cognitive impairment.

Requires volunteers to be at least 18 years old and pass a criminal background check (LiveScan); volunteers may serve for a maximum of 24 months in two 12-month terms.

Mandates CRCs provide volunteers with a six-week internship consisting of 40 hours of training modules and shadowing with unpaid family caregivers, plus a monthly stipend of $1,250.

Provides educational awards to volunteers completing at least 12 months of service: $6,000 for general use or up to $10,000 if committed to health care or social services education, with maximum total awards of $12,000 or $20,000 depending on commitment type.

Requires the Director and an advisory council to evaluate the program during 2022, examining caregiver stress reduction, volunteer efficacy, respite hours provided, workforce development outcomes, and recipient workforce re-entry rates.