New 2026 Law Changes Definition of “Grave Disability”—Are You at Risk? Shocking Details Inside!

Starting January 1, 2026, the Los Angeles County Departments of Mental Health (LACDMH) and Public Health will implement a significant update to California’s mental health laws through Senate Bill (SB) 43. This legislation expands the definition of “gravely disabled” under the Lanterman-Petris-Short (LPS) Act, which is crucial for protecting the state's most vulnerable residents.

Under the revised criteria, individuals suffering from a severe substance use disorder may now be considered “gravely disabled” if they are unable to meet their basic personal needs for food, clothing, and shelter. This change also takes into account their personal safety and the need for necessary medical care, particularly for those experiencing co-occurring mental health and severe substance use conditions. This adjustment aims to provide a more comprehensive approach to mental health services in California.

"The county-wide implementation of Senate Bill 43 is a positive step for providing hope and well-being to some of our most vulnerable and highest-risk Los Angeles County residents,”

said LACDMH Director Lisa H. Wong, Psy.D.

SB 43, which was passed in 2023, is part of a broader statewide initiative to modernize California’s mental health and substance use disorder services. The updated legislation acknowledges the complex interplay between mental health and substance use, paving the way for enhanced support for residents facing these challenges.

“Senate Bill 43 is an opportunity to support the diverse needs of our residents,”

commented Dr. Barbara Ferrer, Ph.D., M.P.H., M.Ed., director of the LA County Department of Public Health. “We look forward to working with our partners at the Department of Mental Health to ensure we provide connections to lifesaving services to the vulnerable people we serve.”

To inform the public about these forthcoming changes, LACDMH and Public Health have launched a dedicated webpage featuring downloadable materials in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, Korean, Armenian, Tagalog, and both traditional and simplified Chinese. The initiative includes social media outreach and community presentations aimed at raising awareness and understanding of the new provisions.

The implications of SB 43 are profound, as they signal a shift in how California addresses mental health and substance use disorders. By providing a clearer framework for identifying those in need of assistance, the legislation aims to improve access to necessary services, thereby fostering a more supportive environment for individuals grappling with these issues.

For more information about Senate Bill 43 and the LPS Act, interested parties can visit www.dmh.lacounty.gov/sb-43.