March 28, 2024
The Honorable Caroline Menjivar
California State Senate
1021 O Street, Suite 6720
Sacramento, CA 95814
Re: Support for SB 959 (Menjivar)
Dear Senator Menjivar:
Mental Health America of California (MHAC) is pleased to support Senate Bill 959 (Menjivar), legislation that would create an internet website where the public can access information and resources to support Transgender, Gender-diverse, and Intersex (TGI) individuals and their families in accessing trans-inclusive health care and other support services in the state.
MHAC is a peer-run organization leading the state in behavioral health public policy and advocacy since 1957. The mission of MHAC is to assist and encourage communities, families and individuals to experience hope, wellness and recovery from mental health and substance use disorder issues through voluntary services that are delivered in their local community with compassion and respect for everyone’s dignity and autonomy.
In alignment with our mission, SB 959 aims to enhance access to mental and behavioral health services in underserved communities, more specifically fostering hope and promoting recovery within the TGI community. Given that 1 in 5 transgender youth have attempted suicide in the past year, there is a pressing need for a centralized hub for gender affirming care.[1] Many individuals are unaware of available services and resources. There is also confusion about whether the information available is from a reliable source. Establishing a state-sponsored website with verified resources will help bridge the gap in service delivery, ensuring timely access to support for those in need.
For these reasons we support SB 959 (Menjivar). If you have any questions, or if MHAC can provide any assistance on this bill or any other behavioral health legislation, please do not hesitate to contact me or our Interim Public Policy Director, Karen Vicari, at kvicari@mhaofca.org.
In Community,
Heidi L. Strunk
President & CEO
[1] 2023 U.S. National Survey on the mental health of LGBTQ Young People. The Trevor Project. (n.d.). https://www.thetrevorproject.org/survey-2023/#gender-affirming-medical-care