MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES ACT

MHSA Overview

In November 2004, California voters passed Proposition 63, the Mental Health Services Act (MHSA). The MHSA provides for a 1% tax on taxable personal income over $1 million. MHSA tax revenues will be distributed to California counties through a contract with the California Department of Health Care Services (DCHS).

MHSA is focused on transforming the mental health care system by improving quality of life for individuals living with mental illness and those at risk of developing mental illness. MHSA provides funding for outreach, prevention and early intervention, improved access to services, support services, family involvement and treatment for unserved and underserved communities. While providing services in these areas, MHSA adheres to five principles:

• Cultural Competence – Services reflect the values, customs, beliefs, and languages of the populations served and eliminate disparities in service access.

• Community Collaboration - Services strengthen partnerships with diverse sectors to help create opportunities for employment, housing, and education.

• Client, Consumer, and Family Involvement - Services engage clients, consumers, and families in all aspects of the mental health system, including planning, policy development, service delivery and evaluation.

• Integrated Service Delivery - Services reinforce coordinated agency efforts to create a seamless experience for clients, consumers and families.

• Wellness and Recovery – Services promote recovery and resiliency by allowing clients and consumers to participate in defining their own goals, so they can live fulfilling and productive lives.