CA AB1928

Establishes Hope California, a secured residential treatment pilot program in San Joaquin, Santa Clara, and Yolo counties for individuals convicted of drug-motivated felonies caused by substance use disorders, operating until January 1, 2026.

Allows judges to offer voluntary participation in the program as an alternative to jail or prison sentences for eligible defendants, with treatment length determined by providers based on risk and needs assessments.

Requires program facilities to be licensed, managed by county health and human services agencies, provide medically assisted treatment, and offer support services including employment assistance and money management.

Mandates successful program completion results in expungement and sealing of the conviction from the participant's record, with court discretion to expunge prior drug possession or use crimes.

Authorizes use of Medi-Cal benefits and 2021 Multistate Opioid Settlement Agreement funds to reimburse treatment services, with counties required to collect data and report annually to the State Department of Health Care Services and Legislature.