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Sen. Gonzales backs contingent authorized representatives to prevent service gaps for people with disabilities
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Summary
SB 1052 would authorize the State Council on Developmental Disabilities to appoint vetted, contingent authorized representatives to step in if family supporters are suddenly unavailable, with standards, consent rules, time limits, and renewals aimed at avoiding conservatorships and service interruptions.
Senator Gonzales presented SB 1052 to allow the State Council on Developmental Disabilities to make contingent appointments of authorized representatives so people served by regional centers are not left without representation when a primary family supporter is suddenly unavailable. The author said the change would address gaps that can lead to conservatorships and disrupt essential services.
Josefina Romo of the Integrated Community Collaborative and other family members recounted cases where illness, detention or hospitalization left a grown child without a recognized representative and services were delayed or terminated. "When a parent is suddenly unavailable ... there is often no one formally recognized to step in and make decisions for their child with a disability," Romo said.
Aaron Carruthers, executive director of the State Council on Developmental Disabilities, explained SB 1052 would allow naming a trusted backup in advance, add safeguards, time‑limited appointments with renewals and clarify good‑cause removal. He said current practice allows annual renewals and that the bill largely codifies existing procedures while strengthening protections for families. The committee heard broad support from ICC members, disability advocates and the State Council; no opposition testimony was recorded. The bill was moved to the Appropriations Committee.
