California asks for feedback on behavioral health policy draft by September 3
What families need to know
California DHCS released draft updates to its Behavioral Health Services Act County Policy Manual and is accepting feedback through September 3, 2026. The proposals address county reporting, language access, behavioral health equity, and Full Service Partnership eligibility and enrollment practices.
California is asking for public feedback on proposed updates to the state policy manual that guides county behavioral health services. For families navigating mental health supports alongside autism, developmental disability, school, or Medicaid needs, this is a chance to speak up about what makes services easier or harder to access.
The California Department of Health Care Services released draft Module 6 updates to the Behavioral Health Services Act County Policy Manual on August 13, 2026. Comments are open through September 3, 2026.
What is being proposed
The draft includes new county reporting requirements about spending, service use, workforce information, and outcomes. It also proposes updated requirements related to language access, culturally responsive care, and reducing disparities in behavioral health services.
Another part of the draft addresses Full Service Partnership, a county program that provides intensive, coordinated behavioral health support for eligible people. The proposal gives counties guidance on identifying people who may be presumptively eligible and starting services quickly when capacity and funding allow.
Who this may affect
This update is not limited to autism services. It may matter to families whose child or adult family member uses county behavioral health care, has co-occurring mental health needs, needs services in a language other than English, or has faced delays finding coordinated support.
Because counties are responsible for implementing much of this policy, the day-to-day effect may look different from one county to another. Family feedback can help DHCS understand where access, communication, and coordination break down.
How to share feedback
- Review the draft Module 6 materials and the supporting documents linked by DHCS.
- Write down specific examples of what has helped or blocked access to county behavioral health services for your family.
- Send comments by September 3, 2026, to BHTPolicyFeedback@dhcs.ca.gov.
What happens next
DHCS will review feedback before finalizing the policy manual updates. If adopted, counties will use the manual to guide their reporting, planning, and service-delivery practices. The department has not announced a final implementation date for every proposed section.
Quick questions
Is this a change to my child’s Medi-Cal eligibility?
No. This is not an eligibility change. It is a draft policy update that guides county behavioral health planning, reporting, and service practices.
Do I need to be in Full Service Partnership to comment?
No. Families, self-advocates, providers, and community members can share feedback, including people who have struggled to access services.
What should I include in a comment?
Specific examples are helpful. You might describe wait times, language barriers, challenges coordinating services, or what families need to feel informed and included in care decisions.
Source: California Department of Health Care Services, BHSA Policy Updates