California Mental Health Services Authority

The meeting focused on the authorization of remote teleconferencing meetings pursuant to Senate Bill 707. Key discussion topics included the review and recommendation for the approval of the draft proposed annual budget for the 2026-2027 fiscal year. Additionally, the committee addressed procedures for public participation and stakeholder input, as well as general operational items.

The committee meeting addressed the authorization of remote teleconferencing meetings pursuant to Senate Bill 707 due to ongoing states of emergency. Furthermore, the committee focused on reviewing and proposing a slate of candidates to fill committee vacancies to be presented to the Board of Directors for approval.

The council discussed program updates, including the availability of various fee waivers for the Peer Certification program and new website resources such as how-to guides and a continuing education requirements page. Other key topics included the introduction of a new peer program specialist, the launch of the specialization training provider application cycle, and information on purchasing prepaid codes for applicants. During the public comment and Q&A portions, participants inquired about future fee waivers and upcoming peer conferences.

The council discussed various program updates, including the Peer Hero Campaign, the release of best practices documentation, and the launch of ethics and boundaries training. The meeting included a recap of 2025 accomplishments such as certification statistics, the expansion of the job board, and curriculum reviews for training providers. Additionally, the council noted the start of applications for Continuing Education training providers and received an update regarding a new peer-led housing project in San Bernardino County.

The Board meeting agenda included a closed session to discuss anticipated and ongoing litigation. Key items for consideration on the consent calendar featured a resolution authorizing remote teleconferencing for future meetings pursuant to Senate Bill 707. Additionally, the Executive Director's report was scheduled for presentation.