San Diego County officials announced on Mar. 20 that community members are invited to review and comment on the draft Behavioral Health Services Act Integrated Plan, a three-year proposal outlining how state funding may be used for local behavioral health services.
The draft plan is part of the county’s response to Proposition 1, approved by voters in March 2024, which updates how counties can use state funds for mental health, substance use disorder treatment, housing, and other critical services. The law requires each county to develop an integrated plan identifying local priorities and allocating funding accordingly.
The new requirements include expanded housing interventions, more substance use disorder services, improved tracking of outcomes, and better access to care. Community engagement has been ongoing since last year through listening sessions and focus groups. Residents, providers, and partners are now encouraged to participate in a 30-day public comment period ending April 15.
“A lot of significant changes are happening in behavioral health right now, and we want to make sure San Diego County’s approach reflects what matters most to our communities,” said Nadia Privara Brahms, director of County Behavioral Health Services. “We’re asking community members, providers, and partners to review the draft plan and share feedback so we can shape a plan that supports access to care and addresses community needs.”
A public hearing with the county’s Behavioral Health Advisory Board is scheduled for May 7. Feedback from the comment period will be incorporated into the final version of the plan before it goes to the Board of Supervisors this summer for approval. Implementation is set for July 1.
San Diego County Government supports historic preservation and community development through various boards and initiatives according to the official website. The San Diego County Administration Center is recognized as a landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places according to the official website. Essential services are delivered by groups focused on public safety, health and human services, land use and environment, finance and general government, as well as community services according to the official website.
Legislative leadership is provided by the San Diego County Board of Supervisors with Sarah Aghassi serving as interim chief administrative officer according to the official website. The county serves residents across urban, rural, mountain, and desert regions according to the official website, while also managing regional airports through its self-supporting aviation department according to the official website.
