California Assembly Bill AB1098

California 2019-2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/21/19
• Refer: 3/21/19
• Report Pass: 4/1/19
• Refer: 4/2/19
• Report Pass: 4/10/19
• Refer: 4/10/19
• Report Pass: 4/12/19
• Refer: 4/22/19
• Report Pass: 4/25/19
• Refer: 4/30/19
• Refer: 5/8/19
• Report Pass: 5/16/19
• Engrossed: 5/29/19
• Refer: 5/30/19
• Refer: 6/12/19
• Report Pass: 6/14/19
• Refer: 6/14/19
• Report Pass: 6/27/19
• Refer: 7/1/19
• Report Pass: 7/10/19
• Refer: 7/10/19
• Refer: 8/12/19

Caption

Substance use disorders: youth programs.

Impact

The bill sets forth comprehensive procedures for the administration of these youth programs, including establishing a technical advisory committee that will evaluate the effectiveness of funded projects and facilitate communication among agencies such as the Department of Health Care Services, the Department of Education, and the Department of Public Health. As it stands, AB 1098 underscores the importance of aligning funding with demonstrated community needs and encourages a collaborative approach to effectively tackle substance use issues facing youth. Moreover, it mandates that funds support innovative practices through pilot programs aimed at creating impactful educational and treatment resources.

Summary

Assembly Bill No. 1098, introduced by Assembly Members O'Donnell and Wood, focuses on addressing substance use disorders among youth through dedicated funding from marijuana tax revenues. The bill stipulates that 60% of specific cannabis tax funds be allocated to a Youth Education, Prevention, Early Intervention and Treatment Account, which is intended to support programs that educate and assist youth in preventing and treating substance use disorders. The legislation emphasizes the need for early intervention and effective educational practices in order to mitigate the crisis related to substance use among young individuals.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding AB 1098 is largely supportive, especially among advocates for youth health and education. Proponents argue that reallocating funds from cannabis taxes to youth programs will significantly improve support systems for at-risk communities. However, there remains skepticism regarding the execution and efficacy of such programs amidst existing bureaucratic challenges. Critics may raise concerns about ensuring that the funding supplements existing support rather than merely substituting it.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the ongoing debate over the adequacy of funding and resources allocated for youth education and intervention programs, especially given the urgency of addressing substance use disorders. Certain stakeholders worry that the bill's reliance on cannabis tax revenues may not sustain long-term funding needs. There are also concerns about how effectively the interagency agreements will function to meet the objectives laid out in the legislation, as well as potential disparities in resource allocation across different counties.