SACRAMENTO, Calif. (KNX) — California Gov. Gavin Newsom proposed a plan on Thursday that would force homeless individuals with severe mental health disorders and addictions into treatment programs.
The proposal would compel all California county governments to establish mental health branches in civil court to assist those in need of intervention but who refuse services.
These branches would provide comprehensive treatment, court-identified patients would be forced to acquiesce.
California Health and Human Services Secretary Dr. Mark Ghaly described the plan as addressing “one of the most heartbreaking, heart-wrenching” challenges, but a necessary “beginning of a conversation about how we address one of the most important problems in California.”
Advocates for the homeless have objected to these so-called “care courts,” arguing such programs violate Californians’ civil rights. Newsom has justified the proposal as a matter of public safety, overriding individuals’ rights in instances where other private citizens have been assaulted or attacked.
Still, the proposal will require legislative approval before going into effect.
Related
