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Voters Will Decide On Updating California's Mental Health And Housing Laws
California Gov. Gavin Newsom displays seven bills signed as he joins city leaders in celebration of legislation to support the state's expansion of mental health services in Los Angeles in 2021.
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FREDERIC J. BROWN/AFP via Getty Images
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AFP
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Topline:
Why it matters: The Newsom administration is trying to update the way mental health is treated in California with a pair of bills. One bill , AB 531, will put a $6.4 billion bond on the March ballot to build over 11,000 treatment beds and supportive housing units.
The other bill, SB 326, will require counties to spend 30% of its Mental Health Services Act funding on housing.
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Critics say the changes are too restrictive to the spending oversight of counties and could lead to more involuntary treatment.
Newsom’s office said the bills are part of the “‘California Mental Health Movement," which is his sweeping plan to address the mental health and substance use disorder crises.
Why now: The change is part of Newsom’s massive overhaul of California's decades-old mental health laws. If approved by voters, Proposition 1 would expand Newsom's “‘California Mental Health Movement" which includes the CARE court system .
What's next: Proposition 1 will appear on the ballot before voters in Mar. 2024.
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But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
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