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Bill

Bill

SCR 69

Relative to Behavioral Health Awareness Month.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Dave Cortese and 1 co-sponsor

California establishes a Behavioral Health Awareness Month through a ceremonial resolution to increase public attention to mental health and substance use issues.

Chaptered by Secretary of State. Res. Chapter 125, Statutes of 2025.
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Bill Summary · SCR 69

Legislative bill overview

SCR 69 designates a specific month in California as Behavioral Health Awareness Month to increase public recognition and discussion of mental health and substance use issues. The resolution passed unanimously through both chambers and has been enacted into law.

Why is this important

Awareness designations can help reduce stigma around behavioral health issues, encourage individuals to seek treatment, and prompt policy discussions around mental health resources and funding. California's designation signals state-level commitment to prioritizing behavioral health as a public health priority alongside other designated awareness months.

Potential points of contention

  • Symbolic vs. substantive: Critics may argue that awareness designations are largely symbolic gestures without accompanying funding or policy changes to address actual behavioral health service gaps
  • Implementation undefined: The resolution does not specify concrete actions, programs, or budget allocations tied to the awareness month, potentially limiting its practical impact
  • Month selection timing: Depending on which month is designated, it may overlap with or duplicate existing national awareness months (e.g., Mental Health Awareness Month in May), potentially diluting visibility

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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