CA SB27

Expands CARE Court eligibility to include individuals with bipolar I disorder with psychotic features, in addition to those with schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorders

Allows courts to make prima facie determinations for CARE petitions without conducting a hearing, and authorizes additional progress hearings beyond the initial 60-day review

Authorizes courts to refer defendants from felony proceedings (not just misdemeanors) to CARE Court, with criminal charges dismissed 6 months after CARE program acceptance if the defendant remains in the program

Permits county behavioral health agencies and jail medical providers to share confidential medical records with courts to determine eligibility for behavioral health services and programs

Adds nurse practitioners and physician assistants to the list of licensed behavioral health professionals authorized to prepare affidavits supporting CARE process petitions