Help Shape the Region’s Behavioral Health Services Future

November 16, 2025

San Diego County Behavioral Health Services is soliciting community feedback to determine funding priorities for mental health and substance abuse services under the recently passed Behavioral Health Services Act (Proposition 1). The act, approved by voters in March 2024, expands coverage to include substance use disorders, reallocates resources toward housing initiatives, and transfers some prevention funding to the state public health department for specialized populations. County officials are conducting virtual meetings and accepting online input to develop their first integrated plan, which will take effect in July 2026.

Who is affected

San Diego County residents with serious mental illness or substance use disorders who are eligible for Medi-Cal
People with substance use disorders (newly eligible under the expanded act)
Specific populations including LGBTQ+ individuals, older adults, and veterans
Community members, stakeholders, and organizations participating in the planning process
People of all ages requiring behavioral health services in the region

What action is being taken

County Behavioral Health Services is holding a series of virtual Zoom meetings
The County is inviting residents to provide input through an online form
Officials are conducting a community planning process to gather insights and recommendations
The County is engaging community members, stakeholders, organizations, and individuals to identify funding priorities

Why it matters

The Behavioral Health Services Act represents a critical funding resource for lifesaving treatment, support services, and housing for vulnerable populations. Community input will directly shape how San Diego County allocates resources and prioritizes services in their first integrated plan, ensuring that funding addresses actual barriers to care and meets the unique needs of diverse populations. The planning process allows residents to influence mental health and substance abuse services for Medi-Cal-eligible individuals in their region, potentially improving access and effectiveness of care for those struggling with serious mental health and addiction issues.

What's next

The County's first Behavioral Health Services Act Integrated Plan will go into effect on July 1, 2026
Additional virtual meetings focused by topic are scheduled (though specific dates are referenced but not provided in the article text)

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint