Proposition 1 has two main components: changes to the Mental Health Services Act (MHSA) and a $6.4 billion bond to fund mental health/substance abuse treatment facilities and housing for those with mental health/substance abuse challenges and the homeless.

Key Facts

• MHSA currently provides about $10-13 billion per year from a 1% tax on incomes over $1 million to counties for mental health services and some substance abuse treatment.

• Proposition 1 would shift around $140 million per year from the counties to the state government to fund workforce expansion and community mental illness/addiction prevention.

• The bond would provide up to $4.4 billion to build more mental health/substance abuse treatment facilities, helping address a statewide shortage of over 10,000 treatment spots. At least $1.5 billion would go to local governments.

• The bond would also provide $2 billion to local governments for housing for those with mental health/substance abuse issues who are homeless or at risk, with over half the funds set aside specifically for homeless veterans.

Financial Impact on Voters

• No changes to the MHSA tax on incomes over $1 million.

• For 30 years the state would pay approximately $310 million per year (less than 0.5% of the state general fund) for the bond repayment, which could limit funding available for other state services.

Who is Impacted

• Counties would have around $140 million less per year for the mental health services they currently provide and would likely have to use other funds to maintain service levels. More MHSA funds would need to be directed to housing/support services.

• Those with mental illness/substance abuse disorders would benefit from expanded treatment options and housing resources funded by the bond. Over 20% of homeless veterans could receive housing.

Intended For

• The provision to expand the mental health workforce aims to serve broad communities and prevent illness.

• Otherwise, Proposition 1 mainly targets those currently unable to access or afford mental health/substance abuse treatment and housing.

How Voters Are Affected

• Taxpayers would take on the debt repayment costs for the next 30 years.

• For those with mental illness/addiction challenges, greater treatment and housing resources could improve community health and quality of life.

• All communities could benefit from efforts to expand the mental health workforce and prevent mental illness/addiction.