In a recent government meeting, lawmakers discussed Assembly Bill 866, aimed at enhancing protections for foster youth amid the ongoing opioid crisis. The bill seeks to align the treatment access for foster youth with existing laws that allow children outside the foster care system to receive opioid use disorder treatments without stigma or fear.

The legislation is a response to the challenges faced by foster youth, particularly following the passage of ABAP 16, which left some ambiguity regarding treatment access for this vulnerable group. Advocates emphasized that timely and accessible treatment is crucial, as it can be a matter of life and death for those struggling with addiction.

The bill has garnered bipartisan support and is backed by a coalition of foster youth advocates, with no opposition noted during the meeting. It clarifies the role of court oversight in treatment cases, ensuring that foster youth can proactively seek medically assisted treatment similar to their peers outside the system.

During the discussion, Assembly members expressed gratitude for the bill's introduction, highlighting its importance in removing barriers to life-saving measures for foster youth. The committee moved to recommend concurrence with the Senate amendments, reflecting a strong commitment to supporting the health and well-being of California's foster youth.