“Advocates are not content just to give a fish or teach how to fish. They will not rest until they have revolutionized the fishing industry.”
- Bill Drayton, Leading Social Entrepreneurs Changing the World
Advocacy
For over 80 years, Cal Voices has been at the of advocating for enhanced public behavioral health services in Sacramento County and across the state! As a peer-led advocacy organization, our team brings a wealth of knowledge in wellness and recovery principles, coupled with personal experiences of individuals in recovery, which we incorporate into our local and statewide advocacy initiatives. In 1996, we became the first agency in California to employ a Consumer and Family Advocate, and in 1987, we pioneered the establishment of a Patient’s Rights Advocacy position. Additionally, we provide training for other peers to empower them in advocating for themselves, their service participants, and the communities they serve!
AB 96 Signed by Governor Newsom, will take effect January 2027!
Cal Voices Legislative Work
Sponsored Bills
AB 96 (Asm. Jackson)
AB 96 would eliminate the requirement for applicants to possess a high school diploma or equivalent degree to become a CMPSS. This legislation has the potential to significantly expand the CMPSS workforce to improve access to behavioral healthcare for priority Medi-Cal populations.
Priority Legislation
Cal Voices advocates for legislation on peer support, mental health, and substance use. Check out our current Priority Bills document and guidance for understanding legislation.
Budget Priorities
Each budget year, Cal Voices establishes budget priorities that the organization will advocate for. Check out our current budget priorities below.
What is Advocacy?
​Actively supporting, pleading for, or speaking up on behalf of a cause, idea, or individual to influence decisions and create positive change.
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Voicing support for a particular cause or policy
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Speaking about or organizing support for something that affects you, someone you care about, or others in the same situation (may involve outreach, engagement, and education)
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Helping others advocate for themselves
Certified Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialists use advocacy to:
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Promote client self-advocacy
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Help clients establish personal needs, goals, and objectives as their focal points of rehabilitation, resiliency, recovery, and wellness
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Assist clients in developing empowerment skills and combating stigma (i.e., public, structural, and self)
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Promote clients’ rights to services
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Address systemic issues in the public behavioral health system