Veterans: Medical Foster Home Pilot Program.
Under AB 2128, medical foster homes are defined similarly to facilities recognized under federal regulations. The bill requires these homes to not be subject to California's Community Care Facilities Act or other related state laws, effectively reducing regulatory burdens on USDVA facilities. Caregivers living in these homes must be registered independent home care aides, which aims to ensure a standard of care provided to veterans. Additionally, the California State Auditor is tasked with evaluating the program's effectiveness and determining if it should continue beyond its initial term.
Assembly Bill 2128, introduced by Assembly Members Flora and Berman, establishes the Medical Foster Home Pilot Program in California. This program allows United States Department of Veterans Affairs (USDVA) facilities in the state to create medical foster homes exempt from certain state regulations that typically govern residential care facilities. The intent of the bill is to expand care options for veterans while adhering to federal requirements outlined in the relevant code sections. The program is set to remain in place until January 1, 2024, when it is scheduled to be repealed unless action is taken to extend it.
The establishment of this program has sparked discussions regarding regulatory oversight and the quality of care provided in these newly created medical foster homes. Proponents argue that this model can provide veterans with more personalized and suitable care options, while critics raise concerns about the potential for less stringent oversight compared to regulated facilities. By eliminating certain state regulations, opponents fear that the quality of care may decline, highlighting the need for careful monitoring and evaluation as mandated by the auditing provisions of the bill.