NAMI California CEO Jessica Cruz released this statement on Governor Gavin Newsom’s State of the State address today:
“We applaud California Governor Gavin Newsom’s commitment to the issue of behavioral health and for making the homelessness crisis the focus of his State of the State address. ‘Doing nothing is no longer an option,’ he said. We agree. We need to ensure that our communities are safe and that there are housing options for all Californians. For this, we need reliable, sustainable funding for housing and for mental health services — at all levels. We also agree with the Governor’s statement that you cannot manage what you cannot measure. This is why NAMI California urges the Governor to consider the voices of families and consumers before any refocus of Prop 63 funds. To find real solutions to the complex issue, we are committed and eager to work with the Administration and all stakeholders on the review of the Mental Health Services Act. We are steadfast in our commitment to ensuring that those personally impacted by mental illness are at the forefront of this effort. Nothing about us without us.”