CA SB42

Requires courts to provide ongoing notice to original petitioners (family members or close contacts) throughout CARE proceedings starting July 1, 2025, including notices of continuances and dismissals, unless detrimental to the respondent's treatment or well-being.

Authorizes facilities to refer individuals treated under involuntary holds to county behavioral health agencies if they believe the individual meets CARE Act criteria, with referrals to be completed within 14 business days and data reported annually.

Allows petitioners whose petitions were dismissed without prejudice to amend and refile petitions without starting over, and extends the county investigation deadline from 14 to 30 court days.

Permits CARE Act courts and referring courts (including juvenile courts) to communicate regarding respondent cases while pending in both courts, with all disposition communications conducted on the record with party access to records.

Requires temporary conservatorship affidavits to include attestations that all alternatives to conservatorship, including assisted outpatient treatment and CARE Act proceedings, have been investigated and found unsuitable.