Over the past decade, NAMI California has been advocating alongside our law enforcement partners for better training, more comprehensive response units, and diverse funding in community-based organizations that can provide crisis stabilization.
It is imperative that throughout the process of “reimagining” policing in California that community voices are at the center of the discussion.
In our letter to the Governor’s Task Force on Policing, we shared our views on making improvements to help individuals, families and communities impacted by mental illness.
We believe a healthy community can have a productive and mutually supportive relationship with their law enforcement agencies if we have a few key markers in place that are reinforced through systemic change:
- Community-Led Policing Strategies and Oversight
- Safe Encounters for Officers and Citizens
- Resilient and Resourced Communities
- Well-Trained Officers
We have recommended actions to:
- Enhance Mental Health Crisis Training for Emergency Dispatchers
- Expand Crisis Mobilization Teams
- Support and Expand Behavioral Health Programs
- Expand the statewide POST Innovative Grant Program
- Establish Family and Friends Training