California Assembly Bill AB1158

California 2021-2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/18/21
• Refer: 3/4/21
• Report Pass: 4/14/21
• Refer: 4/14/21
• Report Pass: 4/22/21
• Refer: 4/26/21
• Report Pass: 4/29/21
• Refer: 4/29/21
• Refer: 5/12/21
• Report Pass: 5/20/21
• Engrossed: 6/1/21
• Refer: 6/2/21
• Refer: 6/16/21
• Report Pass: 6/30/21
• Refer: 6/30/21
• Report Pass: 7/5/21
• Refer: 7/5/21
• Report Pass: 7/8/21
• Refer: 7/12/21
• Refer: 8/16/21
• Report Pass: 8/26/21
• Enrolled: 9/10/21
• Chaptered: 10/1/21
• Passed: 10/1/21

Caption

Alcoholism or drug abuse recovery or treatment facilities: recovery residences: insurance coverage.

Impact

The proposed changes will impact the existing frameworks governing substance abuse recovery services in California. By instituting insurance requirements, AB1158 not only seeks to protect the recovery residences themselves but also aims to ensure that governmental entities contracting with these facilities can assume a degree of financial safety. This is significant in the context of increasing reliance on recovery residences as part of a comprehensive treatment approach for substance abuse disorders in the state.

Summary

Assembly Bill No. 1158 addresses the regulation of alcoholism or drug abuse recovery or treatment facilities in California. It mandates that any licensed facility serving more than six residents must maintain specific insurance coverages, including commercial general liability insurance and employers liability insurance. For facilities serving six or fewer residents, only general liability insurance is required. The bill aims to enhance the financial protections for these facilities, ensuring they are well-insured for any liabilities that may arise in the course of their operation, especially concerning the vulnerable populations they serve.

Sentiment

Sentiment surrounding the bill seems generally positive among supporters who view the increased insurance requirements as a necessary step towards safeguarding both clients and facilities. They argue that such measures can bolster public trust in recovery systems by ensuring that facilities are financially viable and accountable. Critics, if any, may point to the potential burden these insurance requirements could impose on smaller facilities, particularly those serving fewer residents, thus affecting their operation and availability.

Contention

A notable contention in the bill arises from balancing increased regulatory requirements with the need for accessible recovery services. Some stakeholders may express concerns that by raising the financial bar for insurance, smaller or less established facilities might struggle to comply, which could inadvertently reduce the number of available recovery options for individuals seeking help. This indicates a tension between ensuring safety and maintaining accessibility in substance abuse treatment options.