An act to add Part 9 (commencing with Section 5990) to Division 5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, relating to behavioral health.
Impact
The implementation of AB 1387 will entail significant changes to existing laws regarding the treatment and management of justice-involved persons suffering from mental health issues. It requires the creation of protocols tailored to each county that govern how confidential information is shared among team members to avoid any breaches of legal confidentiality standards. This proactive approach aims to enhance the quality of care these individuals receive while promoting broader public safety and health outcomes.
Summary
Assembly Bill 1387, introduced by Assembly Member Quirk-Silva, aims to establish a behavioral health multidisciplinary personnel team within counties to assist justice-involved individuals who are diagnosed with mental illness. This bill seeks to facilitate the identification, assessment, and linkage of these individuals to supportive services while they are incarcerated and upon their release from county jail. By allowing provider agencies and team members to share confidential information, the intent is to ensure continuity of care across various facets of public service, including health, social, and legal services.
Sentiment
Sentiment around AB 1387 is generally supportive in the context of addressing mental health issues among justice-involved individuals. Advocates view the bill as a progressive measure that addresses the critical need for integrated health services. However, it may face scrutiny from factions concerned about privacy issues and the handling of sensitive information. The perceived effectiveness of the bill's provisions for confidentiality and safety will likely be debated as implementation begins.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise concerning the protocols for information sharing between agencies involved in the behavioral health multidisciplinary personnel team. Critics might express concerns about the adequacy of privacy protections for individuals whose information is being shared, questioning whether the bill's provisions are sufficient to prevent unauthorized access or misuse of personal information. Balancing the need for confidentiality with the necessity for effective service integration poses a challenge that will require vigilant oversight.
An act to add Chapter 10 (commencing with Section 8300) to Division 8 of Section 4755 to the Welfare and Institutions Code, relating to behavioral health. developmental services.