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BHSSA update: commission has invested about $280M; next round to make $7.6M available annually
Summary
Staff reported that since inception the commission has invested approximately $280 million in BHSSA funds and outlined the next procurement cycle: summer engagement, RFA outline drafting in September, PAC review in November, commission review in January 2027 and an expected February 2027 RFA release for May 2027 awards. Staff noted a WestEd evaluation with preliminary findings due in November and a final report by mid‑2027.
Staff provided an update on the Behavioral Health Student Services Act and the procurement plan for the next BHSSA cycle. Kai said the commission has invested approximately $280,000,000 in BHSSA grants since the program began and that the next procurement will make $7,600,000 available annually. The BHSSA program is established in the Welfare and Institutions Code and funds partnerships between county behavioral health departments and local education agencies to expand school‑based services.
Kai reviewed recent actions the commission has taken under BHSSA, including a $3,600,000 substance‑use‑disorder integration pilot supporting 12 existing BHSSA grantees, a $1,500,000 enhanced statewide technical assistance contract, and up to $9,000,000 for building school behavioral health performance management systems. Kai also said the commission is conducting a comprehensive evaluation of BHSSA with WestEd; preliminary evaluation findings will be presented in November and a final evaluation report is expected by mid‑2027.
Cochair Madrigal Weiss recused herself from BHSSA discussion and decisions because her employer, the San Diego County Office of Education, receives BHSSA funding; Designee Marjorie Swartz chaired the item in her absence. Staff reiterated the procurement timeline: summer engagement and surveys, RFA‑outline drafting in September, vetting in October, PAC presentation in November, commission review in January 2027 and a planned RFA release in February 2027 to support May 2027 awards.
The PAC received the update; no vote was required.
