SSG BACUP

BACUP is truly excited that Governor Newsom signed a number of legislative measures related to behavioral health--and to homelessness--which move California to the forefront of tackling the unprecedented mental health crisis in the US. We're especially happy that among the bills signed was SB-803 allowing for the state certification of Peer Specialists. This bill is key to acknowledging that peer support is integral to the treatment and recovery of anyone in the state living ...with mental health challenges. Senator Jim Beall relentlessly sponsored bill after bill (year after year!) and ultimately--in the last months of his final term in office--fulfilled his goal and that of Peer Specialists working in public mental health systems throughout the state. Likewise, the California Association of Mental Health Peer Run Organizations (CAMHPRO), headed by Sally Zinman, has been a beacon and advocate for peer specialists throughout the state for many years. Thanks also to the Steinberg Institute, the California Behavioral Health Directors Association (CBHDA), and the County of Los Angeles for co-sponsoring SB-803. Peer Specialists are now (officially) being recognized for their commitment and efforts!! Of course, thanks again to Gov. Newsom for his leadership in ensuring the brain health and wellness of every California resident at a time unlike any other in history. Vera Calloway Director SSG-BACUP https://cheac.org//newsom-signs-measures-on-behavioral-he/ https://steinberginstitute.org//steinberg-institute-legis/