The Behavioral Health Services Oversight and Accountability Commission, known as the Commission for Behavioral Health (CBH) and formerly the Mental Health Services Oversight and Accountability Commission, was initially established in 2004 through Proposition 63 to oversee implementation of the Mental Health Services Act and to drive innovation and accountability in California’s community-based mental health system.
With the passage of Proposition 1, the Behavioral Health Services Act, in 2024, the Commission is now a diverse group with 27 members – including people with lived experience, mental health and substance use disorder (i.e., behavioral health) professionals, county representatives, and other key State leaders – ensuring a comprehensive approach to meeting the needs of all Californians, especially those most in need. Together with community members, people with lived experience, family members, and representatives from all levels of government, the Commission analyzes data, identifies gaps, and advances solutions to improve services, reduce disparities, and address emerging issues. The Commission leverages evaluation and research to help shape policy, promote best practices, and support innovative programs. Through grants, technical assistance, and working closely with community members and local and State agencies, the Commission aims to build a more effective and responsive behavioral health system.
The Commission is committed to transparency, public engagement, and ensuring every individual’s voice is heard in shaping the future of California’s behavioral health services.
Vision
All Californians experience wellbeing through a coordinated system that prioritizes prevention, early intervention, and recovery-oriented services; builds on the strengths of communities and marginalized groups; and creates opportunities for individuals to engage in meaningful and purposeful activities so they can thrive.
Mission
The Commission works to transform systems by engaging diverse communities and employing relevant data to advance policies, practices, and partnerships that generate understanding and insights, develop effective strategies and services, and grow the resources and capacity to improve positive behavioral health outcomes for every Californian.
History
In 2024, voters approved the historic Proposition 1, establishing the Behavioral Health Services Act (BHSA) on the foundation of California’s 2004 landmark Proposition 63, the Mental Health Services Act (MHSA). The original MHSA imposed a 1 percent income tax on wealthy residents to pay for behavioral health services, established a framework for continuous improvement of mental health care in the state, and created the Commission.
The BHSA continues the 1% tax on wealthy residents, modernizing California’s behavioral health system to focus on serving those with the highest behavioral health needs, improving accountability and transparency, and expanding the capacity of behavioral health care facilities.
Statements of Economic Interests
For information about Statements of Economic Interests (Form 700) filed by our Commissioners and designated staff, please contact the California Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) for assistance with locating and accessing any available filings.
FPPC Contact: https://www.fppc.ca.gov/about-fppc/contact-us.html
FPPC Form 700 information: https://www.fppc.ca.gov/transparency/form-700.html
Commissioners
In Memoriam
Tina Wooton
Tina Wooton worked in the mental health system for 23 years, advocating for the employment of consumers and family members at the local, state and federal levels. From 2009 to 2021 she served as the Consumer Empowerment Manager for the Santa Barbara County Department of Alcohol, Drug, and Mental Health Services.
From 2005 through 2009 she worked as the Consumer and Family member liaison for the California State Department of Mental Health and was staff to the state Mental Health Services Act Implementation Team. Between 1997 and 2005 she served as Consumer Liaison for the Mental Health Association / County Mental Health of Sacramento and as service coordinator for Human Resources Consultants from 1994 through 1997.
Wooton was Vice President of AMP (Arts Mentorship Program) for Santa Barbara Dance Arts and a Santa Barbara Elks member. Commissioner Wooton represented clients and consumers.
Click to read more about Commissioner Wooton in a remembrance.
To request a copy of a specific contract, send an email to: bhsoac@bhsoac.ca.gov