Governor Gavin Newsom has taken significant steps to address the homelessness crisis in California by expanding access to mental health services for individuals with behavioral health needs. He signed two bills aimed at transforming the healthcare system, providing a “billion-dollar boost” to mental health services in the state.
Senate Bill 326: This legislation aims to enhance the Mental Health Services Act, which is designed to reform the state’s behavioral health system. The goal is to improve services for people with mental health issues. Governor Newsom highlighted the allocation of $2.4 billion over the next five years as a major step to support this reform.
Assembly Bill 531: This bill allocates $6.38 billion for the construction of over 11,000 new behavioral health beds and housing units, along with more than 26,000 treatment slots. It offers counties greater flexibility in using federal funds to address the mental health crisis. The objective is to create more accountability in addressing homelessness and mental health concerns, focusing on stabilization and support.
Governor Newsom emphasized that addressing the issue requires a different approach and highlighted the importance of making investments without raising taxes, thus ensuring that a billion dollars can be allocated annually for these services.
In Kern County, where the impact of mental health challenges and homelessness is substantial, organizations like the Mission at Kern County are taking action to provide support and services to those in need. By opening a day center and collaborating with partners like Kern Behavioral Health and Recovery Services, they aim to case manage individuals requiring assistance.
These legislative actions represent a significant commitment to improving mental health services and addressing the homelessness crisis in California.
