SB 543
SB 543 (Senate Bill 543), was signed by California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger back in October, 2010. This bill created a new minor consent mental health right in California. This law is currently in affect and has allowed children ages 12 and older to consent to their own mental health care if a mental health professional deems them mature enough to intelligently participate in treatment. California law already allows minors to consent to mental health counseling but only if they are in danger of seriously harming themselves or others, or are victims of child abuse. This law has proven to be critical for youth in California to receive care and help before they are in danger. SB 543 will make a difference for other young people as well, including homeless youth who do not have contact with their parents and are simply unable to obtain parent consent for treatment.
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SB 543
The Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative (YBHI)
The Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative, or YBHI for short, took effect in July 2021. With approximately $4.4 billion of funding, this would be the perfect opportunity to improve and enhance the behavioral health systems for youth and children in California. The purpose of YBHI is to provide countless of services to families and youth in need of mental health support and assistance. In addition to restructuring many programs, the YBHI has partnered with multiple organizations such as CalHHS, different schools, community partners, and State agencies.
I believe that this initiative will be just the start in a world of increasing mental health problems in teens and children. California has taken action quickly to minimize the damage done by social media and other outside influences that can deter a child's mental health and confidence. Hopefully other states follow suit and take action as well.