We wish to express our support for maintaining funding to the Early Mental Health Initiative (EMHI). First, we would like to acknowledge the unprecedented budget crisis the State of California is facing. We acknowledge that cuts have to be made. We respectfully request that you do not accept the Governor’s proposed elimination of the entire $15 million in funding for EMHI programs in 2003-04. While cuts may be appropriate, we do strongly disagree with eliminating this important program for at risk children in our school system.

Funds for EMHI are allocated from Proposition 98 and distributed by the Department of Mental Health (DMH) through matching grants to public schools. EMHI funded programs are a low-cost method of directly helping children become ready to learn. Under this program, the State awards grants to Local Education Agencies to implement early mental health intervention and prevention programs for students in K-grade 3. Schools that receive grants must also provide at least a 50 percent match to the funding provided by DMH. Schools use the funds to employ child aides who work with students to enhance the student’s social and emotional development. Students must have parental permission to participate in the program. To quote the Senate Budget sub-committee analysis on this program, "the Early Mental Health Initiative is an effective school-based program. It serves children experiencing school adjustment issues who are not otherwise eligible for special education or county mental health services." The intervention provided by EMHI can have immediate impact on the child, the classroom, and the school environment. The long-range effects can last a lifetime. Maintaining a level of funding will ensure the continuity of critical support offered to elementary school children.

We truly appreciate the complexities in putting the 2003-04 budget together. We hope that you can be helpful in providing adequate Proposition 98 funding in place for the Early Mental Health Initiative. Budget cuts are expected; elimination of this vital program will be devastating for over 23,000 school children in California.

Thank you for your consideration on this issue. If we can provide you with any additional information, do not hesitate Chris Kahn, CASP lobbyist at (916) 446-3007.