Sacramento, CA – Senate Bill 177, authored by Sen. Strickland (R-Simi Valley), passed unanimously on the Senate floor and now heads to the Governor’s desk for his signature.

Santa Barbara County has only one licensed hospice facility and the waiting list for this facility averages 8 to 12 patients, as there is no other inpatient facility in Santa Barbara County and only a small facility in neighboring Ventura County. SB 177 would increase the maximum number of patient beds allowed in Santa Barbara County.

“I’m pleased to have authored this bipartisan legislation which solves an important healthcare need in my district,” Sen. Strickland said. “This bill is essential in addressing the growing need for hospice care in our community.”

“Healthcare is of the utmost importance, and I’m happy my colleagues unanimously agreed that expanding hospice care on the central coast was a necessity,” Sen. Strickland added.

SB 177 is now awaiting the Governor’s signature. If signed into law, this bill will take effect January 1, 2012.

Tony Strickland is Vice Chairman of the Senate Health Committee and represents California Senate District 19, which includes portions of Los Angeles, Ventura, and Santa Barbara counties.