CA AB2244

Establishes a 30-calendar-day approval timeline for regional center requests to the Department of Developmental Services for prior written authorization to exceed provider rate restrictions, with requests deemed approved if the department does not respond within that timeframe unless the director determines additional time is needed.

Requires the department to make decisions on rate authorization requests involving imminent and serious threats to consumer health and safety within 3 working days, with a single opportunity for the department to request additional information, after which another 3 working days applies.

Mandates the department send written acknowledgment of all authorization requests within 3 working days, including the date of receipt and contact information of the handling representative, and allows consumers or regional centers to request meetings prior to a decision.

Requires the department to annually report to the Legislature on the age of each regional center authorization request by individual regional center and make the accounting publicly available on the department's website.

Directs the department to adopt regulations by July 1, 2019, establishing a process to review systemic issues with service provider rates that could create economic distress or service disruptions, with decisions required within 60 calendar days of requests.