CA AB1280

Prohibits hospice providers, staff, and agents from paying referral sources for patient referrals to the hospice.

Prohibits hospice salespeople, recruiters, agents, or employees who receive compensation for referrals or admissions from providing consultation on hospice services, hospice election, or informed consent.

Requires only registered nurses, licensed vocational nurses, medical social workers, chaplains, or counselors employed by the hospice to complete hospice election, informed consent, and counseling with patients or their representatives.

Requires hospices to provide patients or their representatives with verbal and written notice of patient rights and responsibilities in an understandable language and manner before furnishing care.

Clarifies that no state reimbursement is required for local agencies or school districts since costs result from changes to criminal penalties under existing law.