CA AB2259

Establishes a 3-year pilot program at 2 California prisons (one male, one female facility) to provide mental health therapy to incarcerated persons within 90 days of release who do not currently receive mental health treatment from the institution.

Requires virtual or in-person therapy sessions of at least 50 minutes, offered at least twice per month, using evidence-based models focused on coping skills, reentry planning, and stabilization.

Ensures therapy communications are confidential under HIPAA, and enrollment does not result in a serious mental health disorder classification unless the provider recommends it and the person provides written consent.

Mandates coordination with the Department of Health Care Services to inform eligible participants about Medi-Cal benefits before release and facilitate continuity of care through Medi-Cal or other funding sources.

Requires annual reports to the Legislature from March 1, 2028, through March 1, 2031, covering program capacity, enrollment numbers, positive treatment outcomes, and successful linkages to community-based treatment; the program sunsets July 1, 2031.