San Diego City Wire

Governor Gavin Newsom has signed Senate Bill 528 into law, a measure introduced by Senator Brian W. Jones aimed at addressing the health care needs of foster children. The new legislation ensures that caregivers of foster youth receive essential court documents related to psychotropic medication prescriptions. This provision is intended to provide both caregivers and medical providers with a comprehensive understanding of the foster child's current and past health history.

Senator Brian W. Jones emphasized the importance of this measure, stating, "Being the caregiver for a foster youth can present unique challenges for the families that graciously step forward to help out. One of those challenges should not have to be hunting down critical health and medical information." He further explained that many foster children may have been prescribed medications due to trauma experienced before finding stable placement, and consistent medical care is crucial for their ongoing health. "However, a child may no longer need that medication," he added. "Without an accurate health history, it is difficult for a health provider to make that determination accurately."

The bill was sponsored by the California Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and received unanimous approval from both the Senate and Assembly. Following Governor Newsom's signature, SB 528 will take effect on January 1, 2023.