SB 707: President's Letter to Members and Colleagues |
| Posted by Rhonda Messamore (rmessamore) on Apr 22 2009 |
Dear CAADAC Members and Colleagues:
Thank you for the hard work you put forth daily to serve those suffering with substance abuse disorders. I appreciate your professionalism, work ethic and mostly your integrity in upholding the highest standards of certification in California.
Many of you may be receiving confusing messages about Senate Bill 707 (DeSaulnier’s counselor licensing and certification bill). The challenges we faced in dealing with negative scrutiny was apparent in regard to our (similar) bill last year. These messages seem to be an attempt to derail the Department of Alcohol and Drug Program’s efforts to pass legislation to create higher standards for our profession. Please avoid being pressured, swayed or fearful by misinformation and scare tactics. It is very important that CAADAC remain supportive of the process while working toward amendments that will address issues that are problematic in the bill. Remember, this (bill) is a work in progress.
The CAADAC Legislative Team is working diligently with the author and the department on amendments that will preserve the current work force and maintain high standards for counselors. We intend to continue to work toward resolutions that will not only encompass our constituents, but will consequently provide consumer protection through state mandated certification and licensure. It is the Legislative Committee’s belief that the best message legislators can hear from our association right now is to pass the bill through the first committee and encourage all parties to continue negotiating!
This bill has four policy committee hearings (at least): two fiscal committee hearings and at least two floor votes. Opposing at this time would be unwise and a dead end to all of the momentum we built last year.
We will continue to serve you through active advocacy and keep you well-informed about our activity at the capital regarding SB 707 as well as other legislation that affects counselors and patients.
Keep your eyes on the website and look for email blasts, we will keep you posted.
Moving forward and upward!
Joe Aragon, CADC II, ICADC, SAP
CAADAC President
Last changed: Apr 23 2009 at 2:47 AM
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