Senate Bill 707 was introduced Feb 27, 2009 by Senator Mark DeSaulnier representing the 7th Senate District and sponsored by the Department of Alcohol and Drug programs.

The Justin Foundation stands firmly behind SB 707and encourages you to support this legislation by writing to your legislators and telling them every person recovering from addiction deserves safe care by a professional who is qualified to guide the healing process.  The only way to guarantee that happens is through accountability to a governing agency.

The State of California previously passed regulations governing minimum levels of educational training for Drug Addiction Counselors.  Information on current regulations can be found at www.adp.ca.gov .

It is the opinion of The Justin Foundation that the current state requlations for Alcohol and Drug Addiction Counselors in California are appallingly substandard based on the following regulations requirements:

• There is no requirement for criminal background checks.  Criminal background checks should be a required part of the certification process and felons with violent or predatory backgrounds should not be allowed to become Drug Addiction Counselors treating a vulnerable and recovering population.
• The minimum requirement for formal education is 155 hours of study.  The Justin Foundation feels strongly that 155 hours of study is not adequate to educate counselors on the disease of addiction, treatment methods, recovery techniques, relapse prevention and to develop the relationship skills necessary for counseling.  This is the lowest standard in the nation!
• Beginning in 2010, at least 30% of counselors in treatment facilities will be required to be certified.  ALL Drug Addiction Counselors working in this field should be certified or licensed by the State of California and all interns should be working under the direct supervision of a certified or licensed counselor.
• 2010 implementation date.  The Justin Foundation strongly believes our loved ones need protection NOW.  Who is going to protect our loved ones entering drug rehabilitation before 2010?

As a consumer, please be aware that the above regulations do NOT cover Drug Addiction Counselors who choose to work at a privately operated office or facility.  These individuals do not fall under any state regulations and are currently not held accountable to any laws other than federal and state criminal codes.