California’s Proposition 1 Would Overhaul Community Mental Health Services

There’s only one proposition on California’s March 2024 ballot, but it deals with some of the state’s biggest challenges: homelessness, substance abuse, and mental health. Proposition 1, backed by Governor Gavin Newsom, is a two-part measure: It asks voters to approve nearly $6.4 billion to increase mental health and substance abuse services and build supportive housing. It also makes big changes to how existing funds are spent under the 2004 Mental Health Services Act, which imposed a 1% tax on personal incomes above $1 million. But critics say Prop. 1 would actually hurt the mentally ill by forcing people into treatment and diverting funding for local services. We’ll break down the measure, and take your questions.

Guests:

Guy Marzorati, reporter and producer, KQED's California Politics and Government Desk

Kristen Hwang, health reporter, CalMatters

Clare Cortright, policy director, CalVoices

Darrell Steinberg, mayor, city of Sacramento

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