California Governor Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, is advocating for the approval of a ballot initiative aimed at addressing the state’s homelessness crisis, a move that social service providers warn could jeopardize programs aimed at preventing homelessness.
Since 2004, when voters passed legislation imposing a tax on millionaires to fund mental health services, approximately $2 billion to $3 billion in annual revenue has been generated. This funding has primarily been allocated to counties to support mental health programs based on broad guidelines of their discretion.
Governor Newsom proposes granting the state greater authority over the allocation of these funds. Proposition 1, slated for the March 5 ballot, mandates that counties allocate 60% of these funds to housing and programs benefiting homeless individuals with severe mental illnesses or substance abuse issues.
However, the proposed uniform allocation formula has sparked concerns, particularly in rural counties like Butte, which have smaller homeless populations compared to urban areas such as San Francisco. While San Francisco’s mayor, London Breed, endorses the measure, officials in Butte County have reservations.
Historically, funding from the millionaire tax in Butte County has supported prevention services targeting high rates of suicide and childhood trauma. Officials estimate that implementing the proposed allocation formula would necessitate diverting at least 28% of current funding from existing programs to housing initiatives. This shift could potentially result in the loss of funding for cultural centers, peer support programs, vocational services, and initiatives aiding homeless populations.
Tiffany McCarter, executive director of the African American Family & Cultural Center in rural Oroville, emotionally expressed concerns about the potential closure of the center, which heavily relies on mental health funding from the county. The center offers various programs, including after-school activities and support sessions, aimed at addressing challenges within the Black community and preventing youth from succumbing to negative influences.
The issue of homelessness has become increasingly pressing across California, with makeshift tents lining streets and impacting local businesses. Governor Newsom, cognizant of the political implications, has made the ballot measure a priority, raising significant funds to support it and featuring in television advertisements advocating for its passage.
