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Merced County outlines BHSA integrated-plan timeline, new certification and allocation rules
Summary
Behavioral Health & Recovery Services staff said the county will submit a draft BHSA integrated plan to the state by March 31, 2026, and described new certification and sub-allocation requirements that could shift service funding and program responsibilities.
Merced County Behavioral Health & Recovery Services provided details on the new Behavioral Health Services Act (BHSA) integrated-plan process and timeline, telling stakeholders the draft will go to the BHRS director on Feb. 9, 2026, be forwarded to the county CEO by March 9, and be submitted to the State by March 31, 2026. Sharon Jones emphasized the plan must now be certified by three officials — the BHRS director, the county CEO and the Board of Supervisors — a change from prior years.
The integrated plan restructures how former MHSA programs are integrated across the system, including the Substance Use Division and the Adult System of Care. Staff described three service components (Full-Service Partnership, housing, and Behavioral Health Services and Support) and noted sub-allocation rules: 51% of BHSS funds must support early-intervention services (with at least 51% of that focused on people aged 25 and under), and up to 50% of housing funds can be used for people living in encampments. Sharon also said the county expects a state review and public-comment period; the draft is planned for posting by March 23, 2026, with BHAB review in May and Board of Supervisors consideration by June 5, 2026.
Sharon said Praxis and RDA are assisting with portal entry and a systems-capacity assessment, and that BHRS is preparing for an MHSA audit scheduled April 21–23. Stakeholders asked for an updated timeline; Sharon agreed to circulate one to committee members.
