The certification process is very important. Counties could build on minimum guidelines from the State. Accountability issues will have to be addressed, as will evaluations on how the program is working. The Public Defenders Association is developing a position paper for the Advisory Group. Public Defenders are looking at the requirements of Proposition 36 and are sensitive to the impacts on the courts.
Leadership is essential to expanding facilities.
No venture capital exists to retool and expand current system. For example, counties could purchase facilities for multiple-purpose centers and tie contracts to the facilities and not the contractors. The treatment providers' system is so diverse, from residential treatment to out-patient care. By addressing rate structures and standardized treatment, we may be able to accomplish things that have been talked about for years. Potential transfer of authority from the courts to providers raises issues about the need to have certification and standards in place.