Bill > SB803

This bill requires the California Department of Health Care Services to establish statewide requirements for counties to develop certification programs for peer support specialists by July 1, 2022. Peer support specialists are individuals who self-identify as having lived experience with the process of recovery from mental illness, substance use disorder, or both. The bill outlines the qualifications, responsibilities, and training requirements for peer support specialists, and authorizes counties to develop their own certification programs and fee schedules, subject to state approval. Additionally, the bill directs the department to seek federal waivers to establish a demonstration or pilot project for the provision of peer support services in participating counties.