CA SB349

Creates the California Ethical Treatment for Persons with Substance Use Disorder Act to protect substance use disorder treatment clients and families through ethical standards and enforcement mechanisms.

Requires all treatment providers operating in California to adopt and distribute a client bill of rights guaranteeing clients rights including honest treatment, informed consent, qualified staff, evidence-based care, individualized treatment plans, and protection from abuse and exploitation.

Prohibits false or misleading statements in marketing and advertising materials regarding treatment services, provider status, contact information, websites, and substance use disorder treatments; violations constitute deceptive practices under the Unfair Competition Law.

Requires treatment providers to maintain records of referrals to or from recovery residences and prohibits them from requesting or retaining payment for treatments provided through unlawful conduct.

Establishes civil penalties up to $20,000 per violation; authorizes the Attorney General, district attorneys, county counsel, city attorneys, and injured persons to bring claims for declaratory relief and damages including treble damages and attorney's fees; grants the Department of Health Care Services authority to investigate violations and suspend or revoke licenses or certifications.