On Monday, Oct. 2, everyone awaited the outcome with anticipation. Would it be a mere trickle or an overwhelming flood?
This marked the beginning of a significant shift in how severely mentally ill individuals, many of whom are homeless, are treated in California. The launch of the CARE Act—short for Community Assistance, Recovery, and Empowerment—ushered in a new era in Orange, Riverside, and five other counties. This groundbreaking legislation allows doctors, licensed therapists, first responders, and family members to petition the court for housing and services on behalf of those suffering from grave mental illness.
As of mid-day Friday, the CARE court in Orange County Superior Court had received four petitions, according to spokesman Kostas Kalaitzidis. In Riverside County Superior Court, two petitions had been submitted, but Brooke Federico, the spokeswoman, disclosed that their Behavioral Health CARES line had received eight referrals.
Currently, information regarding the petitioners—whether they are medical professionals, social workers, or parents—remains undisclosed, as CARE court proceedings are not publicly accessible records.
Nevertheless, the counties will gather detailed reports to inform the state’s program implementation in Los Angeles County in December, followed by the remainder of the state next year.
Orange County foresees around 1,400 petitions being filed during the first year, averaging about 27 per week. Riverside County anticipates receiving 450 to 800 petitions, or roughly eight to 14 per week.
The program has sparked intense controversy, with opponents arguing for individual freedom and autonomy, while supporters advocate for the responsibility of society to provide support and prevent mentally ill individuals from living and perishing on the streets.
Officials are keen to emphasize that no one will be compelled to receive treatment against their will.
So, what happens now that petitions have been filed? They will undergo review by a judge, and mental health experts may conduct evaluations as necessary.
To qualify, the individual must be at least 18 years old, suffer from severe untreated mental illness (such as schizophrenia spectrum disorder or other psychotic disorders), not be clinically stabilized or engaged in voluntary treatment, and be in a rapidly deteriorating condition where survival without supervision is unlikely.
If the individual meets the qualifying criteria, a CARE plan will be developed and subject to court approval. The plan includes medical treatment, stabilizing medications, counseling, psychotherapies, peer support, and, importantly, a housing plan tailored to their needs.
CARE plans can span up to 12 months, with the option for extension for an additional 12 months if necessary. The ultimate goal is to divert individuals from the cycle of incarceration and psychiatric hospitalization, prevent loss of legal rights through conservatorship, and ultimately, save lives. Officials have emphasized that recovery and independence are the key objectives.
According to officials, California is home to approximately 7,000 to 12,000 people suffering from severe psychosis.
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