June 4th, 2025
The Honorable Sasha Renée Pérez
Senate Education Committee
1021 O Street, Room 6740
Sacramento, CA 95814
Re: CAYEN Support for Assembly Bill 322 (Ward)
Dear Chair,
The California Youth Empowerment Network (CAYEN) is pleased to support AB 322 (Ward), legislation that would provide guidance to county offices of education and charter schools to establish “Health Days” to provide screenings for common health problems among pupils. This bill would also encourage all schools to participate in programs that offer reimbursement for school-based health services and school-based mental health services.
CAYEN is a youth-led statewide network comprised of TAY Action Teams and CAYEN Board members that engages, empowers, and represents Transitional Age Youth (TAY), ages 15-26, in mental health advocacy on issues that directly affect TAY. One of CAYEN’s top priorities is expanding access to inclusive, culturally responsive, and community-based mental health and substance use services.
Youth throughout California, especially in rural communities, face significant barriers to accessing services. Not all schools have a school-based health center or are located close enough to providers. While school districts already receive information on establishing “Health Days”, AB 322 would help close gaps in care by providing guidance to county offices of education and charter schools. These days provide education to youth about various health problems and allow for proper screenings of common health problems among youth, including mental health. Early identification and intervention can ensure proper services and support are provided, which would result in long-term positive health outcomes.
In addition to designating a specific day for health education and screening, this bill would encourage schools to participate in programs that offer reimbursement for school-based health and mental health services. The California Youth Behavioral Health Initiative (CYBHI) is a five-year initiative that is changing the way California supports children, youth, and families. Through its statewide multi-payer fee schedule for school-linked behavioral health services, Medi-Cal and commercial plans must adhere to set rates for local education agencies and school-affiliated providers. Schools now have the fiscal capabilities to invest and provide services to their youth.
For these reasons, we support AB 322 (Ward) and ask for your “Aye” vote. If you have any questions, or if CAYEN can provide assistance on this bill or any other behavioral health legislation, please do not hesitate to contact me at dthirakul@mhac.org or our Director of Public Policy, Karen Vicari, at kvicari@mhac.org.
Sincerely,
Danny Thirakul
California Youth Empowerment Network
Public Policy Coordinator
