California Overdose Death and Addiction Reduction Act of 2025.

Senator Reyes's California Overdose Death and Addiction Reduction Act establishes a framework to reduce alcohol- and drug-related deaths by 50% by 2031, responding to data showing over 12,700 overdose fatalities in California during 2023 - a 160% increase since 2017.

The legislation directs the California Health and Human Services Agency to develop implementation recommendations by January 2028 through a state advisory group comprising representatives from key departments, healthcare providers, researchers, and individuals with treatment experience. The advisory group must evaluate existing health coverage policies, treatment practices, and outcome data while considering access to medication, provider training, and demographic disparities in care delivery.

The bill requires the agency to adopt the advisory group's recommendations and establish minimum standards for substance use disorder services. These standards address low-barrier care models, pharmacy and primary care access for addiction medication, provider training requirements, and considerations for co-occurring conditions. The agency must consult with other state entities that regulate or contract with health plans to coordinate implementation efforts.

To track progress, the agency must report to the Governor and Legislature on goal achievement, recommendation effectiveness, and strategies for sustained reduction beyond 2031. Reports will incorporate healthcare quality metrics, consumer satisfaction data, social determinants of health, and input from state agencies involved in health coverage regulation and oversight.