Hello John,

The Assembly Health and Judiciary committees will hold a joint informational hearing focused on ways to improve the Lanterman-Petris-Short (LPS) Act on Wednesday, December 15.

They need to hear from you to understand the real-life implications of the problems with LPS. Please share your experiences with the LPS Act and how and why it should be reformed. Use our form to submit your testimony directly to the committees for the hearing. Please note that your submission is considered public comment and may be read into the record or reprinted.

TAKE ACTION

The Lanterman-Petris-Short (LPS) Act of 1967 is California’s statute governing civil commitment (the 5150 and 5250 processes) and conservatorship for grave disability. Whatever its good intentions, the gaps in this law and the state’s lack of oversight to ensure consistent practice are largely responsible for many of the bad outcomes for those with severe mental illness that Californians see every day. A recent report of the law’s failings by the state auditor identified many changes needed to make the law work for the vulnerable people it is meant to serve and protect.

It’s time to demand reform of LPS so that it can serve our families and get effective treatment to people when it will have the ability to help them recover and thrive.

The hearing will take place Wednesday, December 15 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. PST in the State Capitol, Room 4202. Find the details here.

Watch the livestream from home at this link: https://www.assembly.ca.gov/todaysevents

Thank you for your advocacy on behalf of those with severe mental illness.

Sincerely,

Lisa Dailey

Executive Director

[email protected]