State hospitals: Patton State Hospital.
The amendment under AB 2385 would broaden the Department of General Services' existing powers regarding the leasing of state property. By enabling the leasing of Patton State Hospital facilities for the purpose of elderly services and transitional housing, the bill is intended to facilitate the development and provision of support services tailored to elder care. This could potentially lead to improved living conditions and necessary assistance for seniors, thereby positively impacting public health and welfare within the community.
Assembly Bill 2385, introduced by Assembly Member Ramos, amends Section 14672.95 of the Government Code concerning the use of state real property at Patton State Hospital. This bill specifically authorizes the Department of General Services to lease facilities at the hospital to nonprofit organizations or local governments. The lease period is limited to a maximum of 20 years and aims to provide essential services for elderly persons. This legislative change seeks to enhance the range of services available at Patton State Hospital, particularly those focused on elderly care and transitional housing.
There may be potential contention surrounding the implementation of this bill, as stakeholders in the healthcare and housing sectors might have differing views about the management of state facilities. Concerns might arise regarding the adequacy of services provided, oversight of nonprofit organizations, and how such leases affect local policies and control. The bill's supporters argue it facilitates much-needed services, while critics may question the efficacy of outsourcing state services to private or nonprofit entities and the potential accountability implications.