CA AB479

Extends authorization for six counties (Napa, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, and Yolo) to offer alternative domestic violence programs that do not comply with standard batterer's program requirements until July 1, 2026 (previously set to expire July 1, 2023).

Requires alternative programs to conduct risk and needs assessments for each offender, base treatment on assessment findings, and include evidence-based or promising practice components with a comprehensive written curriculum.

Mandates minimum one-year program length unless a validated risk and needs assessment completed by probation determines an alternative length is appropriate.

Requires counties to collect and annually report to the Legislature detailed data on participants including demographics, criminal history, risk levels, treatment provided, and outcomes at program completion and six months after.

Declares the bill an urgency statute to take effect immediately upon Governor approval (July 21, 2023).