Controlled substances: research.

Assembly Member Ward's legislation revises California's framework for controlled substances research by modifying the Research Advisory Panel's operations and review processes. The bill establishes an expedited pathway for reviewing research projects involving Schedule I and II controlled substances when applications meet specific criteria, including independent peer review and institutional review board or animal care committee approval.

The panel's chairperson may deputize two or more members to conduct expedited reviews of qualifying projects without requiring full panel votes. These deputized members would be exempt from Bagley-Keene Open Meeting Act requirements until January 2028, allowing asynchronous consultation on applications. The legislation also authorizes the panel to withdraw project approvals for reasonable cause after providing written notice and an opportunity to address concerns.

The bill maintains existing panel composition while clarifying administrative roles, requiring the Attorney General to collaborate with the panel chair on regulations. New reporting requirements mandate annual updates to the Legislature and Governor on approved projects, including those processed through expedited review. A separate report on application backlogs must be submitted by January 2026. These provisions aim to enhance transparency while preserving necessary confidentiality for sensitive research information.

The changes incorporate sunset clauses, with key provisions including the expedited review process expiring January 1, 2028, at which point modified versions of several sections take effect. The legislation also updates closed session protocols under the Bagley-Keene Act, allowing the panel to discuss confidential research information while maintaining public access requirements for other proceedings.