This bill makes legal changes needed to carry out parts of the state’s 2025–26 budget related to services for people with developmental disabilities. Here's what it does:

1. Implicit Bias Training for Regional Centers

Training to address bias will only happen if the Legislature sets aside money for it.

2. Rate Protection for Some Providers Ends Early

A rule that protects providers who charge more than the recommended rate was going to end in June 2026 but will now end sooner—February 2026.

3. Quality Incentive Program Requirements

Starting in 2026–27, providers must follow certain rules (like electronic visit tracking and financial audits) to qualify for bonus payments under the quality program.

4. Master Plan for Developmental Services

There will be ongoing meetings and reports to track progress on the long-term plan for developmental services.

5. Health and Safety Waivers

Regional centers can only give extra help for urgent health and safety needs if the Legislature gives them money for it.

6. Defining “Cost Effective”

By August 1, 2026, DDS must work with the community to create a clear, official definition of what “cost effective” means when deciding how services are funded.

7. Changes to the Self-Determination Program (SDP):

a. By March 1, 2027, DDS must create statewide, standardized rules (with community input) to:

• Make enrollment easier

• Clarify how budgets, spending plans, and supports are handled

b. Initial Budgets will include:

• The past year’s authorized services

• Services listed in the IPP but not yet authorized

• Minus anything paid by the regional center outside of SDP

• Plus one-time expenses

c. IPP teams must talk about unmet needs for participants who aren’t using many services.

d. Participants can move money between budget categories or service codes, with approval from the regional center or their planning team. Regional centers must give quick authorization to the Financial Management Service (FMS).

e. Regional centers must review and certify spending plans to ensure the services:

• Match the participant’s goals

• Can’t be covered by other programs

• Are eligible for federal funding

8. Tailored Day Services

As of July 1, 2025, DDS will set the hourly rate and publish it on its website.

9. Parental Fee Program is Repealed

Families will no longer be charged fees based on income for their child’s services.

10. Employment Services Updates

• Group supported employment can include as few as 2 people or as many as 8.

• DDS will set and publish hourly rates for employment services.

11. Other Technical Changes

Makes other legal updates needed to match current practice or clarify language.

Budget Impact:

The bill sets aside $2.78 million for planning projects at regional centers related to improving quality of life outcomes for people served.