Governor Acts on Bills
Governor Newsom has vetoed CSAP-supported AB 255 (Haney), the Supportive-Recovery Residence Program. AB 255 would have allowed state programs to fund residences for people experiencing homelessness who also face substance use challenges, with an abstinence emphasis but still operating within the Housing First framework (i.e. low barriers, voluntary support, etc.). In his veto message, Governor Newsom stated, “The bill would impose new costs on counties and localities without providing a source of funding or reimbursement,” and that the bill “may lead to duplication and fragmentation of programs intended to serve the same populations.” You may view the full veto message here.
California Science and Health Research Bond Act
SB 607 (Wiener), the California Science and Health Research Bond Act, was amended in the final days of the session. SB 607 would establish a new California Foundation for Science and Health Research within the Government Operations Agency. Its purpose is to provide long-term, state-level funding for critical scientific and health research, particularly in areas where federal support has been reduced or suspended. It will also place a bond measure before voters that would authorize $23 billion in state general obligation bonds to finance research, facilities, and operations. CSAP will be discussing this bill at its next GAC meeting and has a recommended support position.
2026 Proposals
CSAP’s Government Affairs Committee continues to focus on new bill sponsorship proposals submitted by members. Have an idea? Email Paul Yoder at SYASL.