California health officials propose diaper access initiative for newborns statewide

A significant proposal to expand California's behavioral health workforce took center stage during the Senate Budget and Fiscal Review Subcommittee No. 3 meeting on May 1, 2025. The BH Connect workforce initiative aims to unlock up to $1.9 billion over five years, significantly enhancing the availability of mental health services across Medi-Cal safety net settings.

Deputy Director for Health Workforce Development, Libby Abbott, outlined the initiative, which is set to launch its first program in July. This initiative is a response to the pressing need for more behavioral health professionals, particularly as California grapples with a growing mental health crisis. Senator Menjubar expressed her enthusiasm, highlighting the initiative's potential to reverse recent cuts to workforce investments.

In addition to the BH Connect initiative, the meeting also addressed the ongoing funding needs for the Health Care Payments Data Program (HPD). HCAI is requesting $22 million annually to support this critical database, which collects healthcare claims data essential for policy analysis and research. This funding is crucial for maintaining transparency and improving healthcare practices in California.

Another noteworthy discussion involved the Diaper Access Initiative, which aims to alleviate financial burdens on families by providing three months of free diapers to every newborn, regardless of income. With diaper costs rising significantly, this initiative seeks to support families in need, with an estimated cost of $7.4 million in the first year.

As the committee continues to evaluate these proposals, the anticipated updates in May will be pivotal in determining the future of California's health and human services funding. The discussions reflect a broader commitment to addressing critical health needs and supporting vulnerable populations across the state.