Overview

In March 2024, California voters passed Proposition 1 to transform behavioral health statewide. Proposition 1 modernizes the state’s behavioral health system, with an emphasis on prevention, early intervention, and community-based approaches that promote behavioral health and well-being across the lifespan. As part of Proposition 1 implementation, the Behavioral Health Services Act (BHSA) reallocates allowable funding to the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) to support population-based behavioral health prevention efforts.

What We Know So Far

CDPH is leading the population-based behavioral health prevention component of BHSA. CDPH is still finalizing Phase 2 guidance to define further the funding structure, roles, and processes.

Ventura County Public Health (VCPH), along with other Local Health Departments across the state, are awaiting formal directions from CDPH regarding the local Public Health specific responsibilities within the BHSA.

Potential Funding for Community-Based Organizations

CDPH is expected to oversee the behavioral health prevention funding process for Community-Based Organizations (CBOs). CBOs will likely apply directly to CDPH (or its designated third-party administrator) for BHSA prevention funding. We encourage interested organizations to continue to monitor state announcements and prepare for future funding opportunities.

VCPH is committed to keeping community partners, stakeholders, and residents informed as state guidance is finalized and new opportunities become available.

Resources

• CDPH BHSA: Provides information about partner and community engagement and other resources.

• • CDPH BHSA Updates: Subscribe here.
  • Email: BHSAinfo@cdph.ca.gov

• CDPH BHSA Partner and Community Engagement: Slides and recordings outlining early concepts for BHSA prevention implementation.
• CDPH BHSA Population-Based Prevention Program Guide: An overview of prevention goals, strategies, and expectations.