The California Assembly has enacted comprehensive reforms to the state's developmental services system, fundamentally changing how services are delivered and funded. The legislation establishes standardized processes for the Self-Determination Program, which allows participants to exercise greater control over their individual service budgets and choices. Under the new framework, individual budgets will be based on authorized services rather than historical expenditures, with regional centers required to certify that spending plans meet specific criteria.
The bill mandates that the Department of Developmental Services create uniform statewide procedures by March 2027 for key program elements including enrollment, budgeting, and financial management services. These standards must be developed through extensive community consultation with stakeholders including individuals with disabilities, families, service providers, and advocacy organizations.
For service providers, the legislation implements new quality incentive requirements starting in fiscal year 2026-27. Providers must demonstrate compliance with electronic visit verification systems, home and community-based services rules, and fiscal audit requirements to participate in incentive programs. The bill also adjusts rate freeze periods to end February 28, 2026.
The Master Plan for Developmental Services receives formal structure through new requirements for its advisory committee to meet at least twice annually and provide detailed implementation updates. The plan must address accessibility, quality, and equity across demographic groups and geographic regions.
Additional provisions eliminate monthly parental fees for certain out-of-home care services, modify supported employment parameters, and appropriate $2.79 million for regional centers to plan Life Outcomes Improvement System projects through June 2026. The legislation's implicit bias training mandate for regional centers becomes contingent on specific legislative funding, though centers are encouraged to continue existing training efforts.
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The California Assembly has enacted comprehensive reforms to the state's developmental services system, fundamentally changing how services are delivered and funded. The legislation establishes standardized processes for the Self-Determination Program, which allows participants to exercise greater control over their individual service budgets and choices. Under the new framework, individual budgets will be based on authorized services rather than historical expenditures, with regional centers required to certify that spending plans meet specific criteria.
The bill mandates that the Department of Developmental Services create uniform statewide procedures by March 2027 for key program elements including enrollment, budgeting, and financial management services. These standards must be developed through extensive community consultation with stakeholders including individuals with disabilities, families, service providers, and advocacy organizations.
For service providers, the legislation implements new quality incentive requirements starting in fiscal year 2026-27. Providers must demonstrate compliance with electronic visit verification systems, home and community-based services rules, and fiscal audit requirements to participate in incentive programs. The bill also adjusts rate freeze periods to end February 28, 2026.
The Master Plan for Developmental Services receives formal structure through new requirements for its advisory committee to meet at least twice annually and provide detailed implementation updates. The plan must address accessibility, quality, and equity across demographic groups and geographic regions.
Additional provisions eliminate monthly parental fees for certain out-of-home care services, modify supported employment parameters, and appropriate $2.79 million for regional centers to plan Life Outcomes Improvement System projects through June 2026. The legislation's implicit bias training mandate for regional centers becomes contingent on specific legislative funding, though centers are encouraged to continue existing training efforts.
| Ayes | Noes | NVR | Total | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 58 | 18 | 3 | 79 | PASS |
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