Developmental services: regional centers.
If enacted, AB 2935 would bring significant changes to the public accountability and transparency of the services offered by regional centers. By requiring these centers to adopt a standardized policy for public information, the bill intends to ensure that all relevant data is available to the public in a coherent manner. This could enhance oversight and improve service quality for individuals with developmental disabilities, encouraging informed consumer choices and fostering community trust in these institutions.
Assembly Bill 2935, introduced by Assembly Member Mathis, seeks to enhance transparency and public access to information regarding developmental services and regional centers under the Lanterman Developmental Disabilities Services Act. The bill mandates the State Department of Developmental Services to create and maintain a transparency portal on its website, aimed at providing stakeholders—including consumers, families, and advocates—easy access to vital information about service providers and regional centers. It also establishes requirements for regional centers to disclose a wide array of public documents on their websites, including independent audits, contract details, and service policies.
However, the bill might also face criticisms and concerns, particularly regarding the feasibility of its mandates on local regional centers. Opponents could argue that such requirements impose an excessive administrative burden, thereby complicating the operations of smaller centers. Additionally, the debate might arise over the privacy of sensitive consumer information, as the bill requires compliance with existing confidentiality laws while promoting public access. Stakeholders' engagement in developing transparency guidelines will be crucial to balancing these interests.