Dear Friends and Neighbors,

Mental Health Awareness Month is an opportunity raise awareness about mental health and help reduce the stigma associated with mental health challenges. It is a time to educate our communities about mental health, promote mental wellness, and advocate for policies and programs that support individuals and families.

Millions of Californians, including at least 1 in 5 youth, live with mental health challenges. I am proud to advocate for policies and programs that make mental health services and education more accessible to everyone.

In 2021, I authored Senate Bill 14, which was signed into law by Governor Newsom. SB 14 ensures that student absences for behavioral health concerns will be treated the same as excused absences for physical health concerns. SB 224, which was also signed into the law the same year, requires public and charter schools to offer mental health education to middle and high school students. It also requires the California Department of Education to develop a plan to expand mental health instruction in California public schools on or before January 1, 2024.

This year, I have authored Senate Bill 509 to help expand mental health education in our schools. The bill will require the California Department of Education to ensure that 75 percent of classified and certificated employees on school campuses complete an evidence-based behavioral health training program.

I have also authored Senate Bill 551, the Mental Health Services Act. If signed into law, the bill would foster collaboration between schools and counties by requiring more representation of children and youth on mental health boards, who oversee the allocation of mental health funding.

Let's use Mental Health Awareness Month to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and promote understanding and compassion for all.

Respectfully,
Hon. Anthony J. Portantino
Senator, 25th District