MHSA Overview

The Mental Health Services Act (MHSA), also known as Proposition 63, was approved by voters in 2004 and imposes a 1% income tax on personal income in excess of $1 million. This tax brings in over $2 billion per year to the state of California. MHSA addresses a broad continuum of prevention, early intervention and service needs to more effectively support the mental health system. To learn more, read a short overview of the Mental Health Services Act.

Components of MHSA

Prevention and Early Intervention (PEI)

Prevention and Early Intervention (PEI) programs (19% of total funding) aim to prevent mental health issues, and implement early strategies to keep serious mental illnesses from being disabling, if possible. 51% of funding set aside for individuals 25 years or younger.

Community Services and Supports (CSS)

Community Services and Supports (CSS) programs (76% of total funding) provide treatment & recovery services to individuals living with serious mental illness or emotional disturbance. 51% of CSS funding is set aside for Full Service Partnerships (FSP) – “whatever it takes” services. CSS funds may be used for Project-Based Housing, which may include purchasing/renovating/constructing and master leasing of Project-Based Housing. CSS can also be used to fund Workforce Education & Training and Capital Facilities & Technological Needs. 

Workforce Education & Training (WET)

Workforce Education & Training (WET) funds are intended to address the shortage of qualified individuals who provide services in the County's Public Mental Health System. Strategies may include training, peer employment, incentives to recruit and retain employees, and intern supervision. 

Capital Facilities & Technological Needs (CFTN)

Capital Facilities & Technological Needs (CFTN) are projects for the acquisition and development of land and the construction or renovation of buildings or the development, maintenance or improvement of information technology for the provision of Mental Health Services Act administration, services, and supports. Capital Facilities and Technological Needs does not include housing projects.

Innovation (INN)

Innovation (INN) programs (5% of total funding) are novel, creative and / or ingenious mental health practices/approaches that contribute to learning, and that are developed within communities through a process that is inclusive and representative, especially of the unserved, underserved and inappropriately served individuals.