Mental Health Services Act (MHSA)

The Mental Health Services Act is a ballot measure passed by California voters in November 2004 that provided new funding for public mental health services. This funding provided for an expansion and transformation of the public mental health system with the expectation to achieve results such as a reduction in incarcerations, school failures, unemployment, and homelessness for individuals with severe mental illness. The programs funded through MHSA must include services for all ages: Children (0-16), Transition Age Youth (16-25), Adults (26-59), and Older Adults (60+). The MHSA Administrative Department manages the planning and implementation activities related to the five main required MHSA components which are: Community Services and Supports, Workforce Education and Training, Prevention and Early Intervention, Capital Facilities and Technology, and Innovation. MHSA funds cannot be used to supplant programs that existed prior to November 2004.