Substance abuse: alcoholism and drugs.
The legislation is primarily focused on reinforcing the standards set for contractors providing recovery services. Specifically, it mandates higher insurance coverage requirements for facilities that serve more than six residents. This change is intended to mitigate risks associated with providing treatment for substance use disorders and to enhance the accountability of these facilities. By ensuring that contractors maintain robust insurance coverage, the law aims to protect both the clients of these facilities and the government entities that engage with them.
Assembly Bill 2938, introduced by Assembly Member Daly, seeks to amend Section 11853.5 of the California Health and Safety Code, which pertains to the regulation and licensing of alcoholism and drug abuse recovery and treatment facilities. The bill reiterates the requirement for government entities that contract with privately owned recovery residences or drug abuse treatment facilities to maintain specified insurance coverages. These amendments aim to ensure that contractors provide adequate coverage to protect both the government entity and the individuals receiving services.
While primarily a technical amendment, the implications of AB 2938 could lead to debates around access to recovery services. Opponents may argue that stringent insurance requirements could deter smaller or newer facilities from operating, thereby limiting options for individuals seeking treatment. Furthermore, the bill's enforcement of insurance standards may raise concerns about compliance costs that could be passed on to clients or the government, potentially affecting the affordability and availability of recovery services in the community.