Discrimination: disability: medication-assisted treatment.
The bill amends the Government Code to establish Section 12958, which explicitly prohibits state-funded programs from denying access to housing services based on an individual's use of MAT. This change is expected to significantly impact the housing stability of individuals recovering from addiction, particularly those released from incarceration who often face discrimination in securing stable housing due to their treatment status. The bill enhances existing protections under federal laws while asserting the state's commitment to civil rights.
Assembly Bill 1339, introduced by Assembly Member Haney, aims to prohibit discrimination against individuals undergoing medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for substance use disorders in state-funded housing programs. The legislation recognizes that addiction to opioids is a disability that can hinder major life activities, thereby justifying protections against housing discrimination. It emphasizes the urgent need to improve access to medications for opioid use disorder, which is linked to a rising mortality risk and overdose deaths in California.
Overall sentiment surrounding AB 1339 is supportive among advocates for addiction recovery and civil rights, emphasizing its role in mitigating discrimination faced by those in MAT. The bill is seen as a crucial step towards creating equitable housing opportunities for individuals in recovery, although there may be concerns about its implementation and effectiveness in fully eliminating discriminatory practices in local housing programs.
While the bill represents a significant advancement in the fight against discrimination for those in recovery, discussions are ongoing regarding the broader implications for housing providers and their obligations under the law. Some stakeholders question whether the bill may complicate the requirements for housing providers by introducing new standards for accommodating residents. As the bill moves forward, it will be critical to navigate these complexities to ensure successful implementation.