California implemented the CARE Act in 2024. This legislation provides individuals struggling with severe mental health challenges, such as untreated schizophrenia, access to court-ordered care plans that prioritize support over punishment.
Under Senate Bill 42, beginning July 1, 2025, courts must notify original petitioners about ongoing CARE Act proceedings. Petitioners are those who brought the petition to the court, such as a family member, guardian, healthcare provider, or another party directly involved in advocating for the person in need of care. The added measure ensures transparency and keeps involved parties informed about the progress of care plans.
AB 170 is designed to improve access to justice by expanding remote technology in juvenile and civil court cases. This change ensures that courtrooms meet minimum technological standards while requiring regular reporting to maintain accountability.
Supporters of AB 170 believe remote proceedings offer more equitable access to justice for Californians who face barriers such as transportation challenges, caregiving responsibilities, or disabilities.
The benefits of Remote technology:
- It allows people who cannot travel to court—due to distance, disability, or financial constraints—to participate in proceedings from their homes or nearby facilities.
- It makes the judicial process more accessible for individuals living in rural areas or those with limited transportation options, directly affecting Morongo Basin residents.
- Judges, attorneys, and litigants can communicate more effectively without the logistical delays of in-person meetings.
- Remote technology reduces hearing wait times and speeds up case resolutions.
- Individuals save money on travel, lodging, and time away from work.
- Courts can manage resources more efficiently, potentially reducing overall costs.
- Remote technology ensures that more parties, especially in juvenile and civil cases, can attend hearings or depositions, making it less likely for important stakeholders to miss proceedings due to scheduling conflicts.
The state says that AB 170 ensures that all participants have access to reliable and fair systems.
