The Department of Alcohol and Drug Programs provides leadership, policy, coordination, and investments in the planning, development, implementation, and evaluation of a comprehensive statewide system of alcohol and other drug prevention, treatment, and recovery services, as well as problem gambling prevention and treatment services. As the state's alcohol and drug authority, the Department is responsible for inviting the collaboration of other departments, local public and private agencies, providers, advocacy groups, and individuals in establishing standards for the statewide service delivery system.

This Department is undergoing significant changes. In 2011-12, the Drug Medi-Cal functions were transferred to counties as part of 2011 Realignment (Org 5196), and administrative functions for the Drug Medi-Cal program are being transferred to the Department of Health Care Services. In 2012-13, the remaining programs are proposed to be transferred to various departments, including the Department of Health Care Services, the Department of Public Health, and the Department of Social Services.