Second Chance Program.

Senator Umberg's proposal to modify California's Second Chance Program expands grant eligibility to include drug courts and collaborative court programs while removing fixed percentage requirements for fund allocation. The legislation amends existing law that provides mental health treatment, substance use treatment, and diversion programs for individuals in the criminal justice system.

The bill establishes an executive steering committee comprising state and local government representatives, community-based treatment providers, and formerly incarcerated individuals to oversee grant administration. This committee will develop proposal guidelines prioritizing programs that combine mental health services, substance use treatment, housing assistance, and other community-based support services. The legislation requires public agencies to serve as lead grant applicants while allowing partnerships with nonprofit and philanthropic organizations.

Under the modified program, grant proposals must demonstrate the ability to leverage additional funding sources, including federal housing assistance, veterans' services, and state behavioral health programs. The bill maintains the program's focus on serving individuals with histories of mental health or substance use disorders while adding eligibility for treatment programs established under the Treatment-Mandated Felony Act. These changes affect the Second Chance Fund, a continuously appropriated funding source administered by the Board of State and Community Corrections.