Under the Behavioral Health Services Act (BHSA) and beginning July 1, 2026, county innovation will be eliminated and the Commission will then oversee and administer the Innovation Partnership Fund grant program. This program will be one of the largest competitive grants in the Commission’s portfolio and represents the Commission’s key responsibility under the BHSA.
Amount
- $20 million annually Fiscal Year (FY) 26-27 through FY 30-31 ($100 million over 5 years)
- FY 31-32 and beyond: the Commission will have to advocate the Legislature for future funding
- The Commission may also combine Mental Health Wellness Act (MHWA) funding, which is $20 million per year, to fund innovative, evidence-based approaches for crisis prevention, early intervention, and response.
- The intent of the MHWA is to ensure sufficient community-based mental health resources are available to reduce costly emergency room visits and hospitalizations, by providing effective prevention, early intervention, and crisis stabilization services.
Eligible Grantees
Private, public, and nonprofit partners may apply.
Purpose
- Improving BHSA programs and practices funded by the counties under BHSA for underserved populations, low-income populations, and communities impacted by disparities.
- Meeting statewide BHSA goals and objectives to expand mental health and substance use disorder services, enhance care for those with serious mental illness and homelessness, build a stronger behavioral health workforce, improve accountability, and increase treatment and housing capacity, especially for vulnerable populations like veterans and youth.
Required Consultation
The Commission will primarily consult with the California Health and Human Services Agency and the Department of Health Care Services, as well as with the California Department of Public Health and Department of Health Care Access and Information, as relevant.
Report to the Legislature
Starting in 2030, and every three years thereafter, the Commission will deliver a report to the Legislature on the funded practices and how well they have achieved their intended purpose.