The development of the Standardized In-Home Respite Tool has entered a new phase! This means that we are one step closer to creating a consistent way to determine the number of respite hours a family may need, no matter where they live in California.
We are currently collecting data from all 21 regional centers that will help finalize the tool. This data comes from testing (but not using) a draft tool with families alongside existing assessments. This data collection will run until April 30, 2026. The data will help determine the appropriate amount of respite hours that should be authorized once the tool is implemented. It also will help address individual instances where significant changes in respite service authorizations may be appropriate and inform an exception process for unique circumstances.
During this period, the respite hours for families continues to be determined by the regional center’s current process.
The Department plans to finalize the tool, train regional centers how to use it, and provide information to the community about the new respite assessment and what to expect, later in 2026.
Respite Tool Background
In 2023, Senate Bill 138 required the Department to address inequities in how respite services are provided to caregivers. The law states that this effort is intended to “provide more statewide uniformity and consistency and promote equity in the administrative practices and services of regional centers, consistent with the Lanterman Developmental Disabilities Services Act.”
Finalizing the tool, educating individuals and families, and training regional center service coordinators will take time, but these steps will create a statewide process, as required by law.