TITLE
Recommendation to request City Manager to provide an update within 60 days on Laura's Law and an explanation of how it is being applied and funded by the County of Los Angeles.
DISCUSSION
In 2002 the California State legislature passed Assembly Bill1421, known as Laura's Law, giving
counties the authority to force certain people with severe mental illness to receive treatment. The
law targets a very specific group: mentally ill people who have landed in jail or hospitals because
of their condition, and only applies to those who might be a danger to themselves or others
because they do not recognize that their condition puts them in need of treatment.
Named in memory of Laura Wilcox, who, while working in a mental health clinic, was shot to death
on January 10, 2001 by a mentally ill patient who refused services, the statute can only be utilized
in counties that choose to enact outpatient commitment programs based on the measure.
Since passage 17 years ago, individual California counties have been slow to sign on with Los
Angeles County adopting the law in 2014. With mental illness, homelessness, and public safety
continuing to be a major focus for all Long Beach residents, the City Council should receive an
update on this law and an explanation of how it is being implemented by Los Angeles County.
This matter was reviewed by Budget Manager Grace H. Yoon, on March 11 , 2019.
FISCAL IMPACT
This recommendation requests a report in 60 days on the status of Laura's Law and how it is
being applied and funded by the County of Los Angeles. The City Manager is planning to reach
out and work with the County to prepare this report. Preparing this report is anticipated to have a
minimal impact on staff hours beyond normal budgeted scope of duties and minimal impact on
existing City Council priorities as staff will work to coordinate with the County to provide this
information.
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
Respectfully Submitted,
SUZIE PRICE
CO...
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