Governor Signs AB 2556 into Law: Enhancing Behavioral Health Awareness for California’s Youth

• Daniel Peeden
• [email protected]

Sacramento- Yesterday, Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 2556, authored by Assemblymember Dr. Corey A. Jackson (D-Moreno Valley), into law. This common sense legislation mandates that health care service plans and insurers provide annual written or electronic notices to enrollees and insureds, highlighting the benefits of behavioral health and wellness screenings for children and adolescents aged 8 to 18.

The bill defines "behavioral health and wellness screening" as a screening, test, or assessment to identify indicators or symptoms of behavioral health issues, including depression and anxiety. Under this new law, health care plans and insurers are required to notify families annually about the importance of these screenings, ensuring that California's youth receive the mental health support they need.

Assemblymember Dr. Corey A. Jackson, Chair of California's Mental Health Crisis, emphasized the importance of the bill, stating:

"The mental health of our young people is critical to the future of California. By ensuring that families are informed about the benefits of regular behavioral health screenings, we are taking a proactive step in supporting the mental well-being of our children. This law will help identify issues early, allowing for timely interventions that can make all the difference in a young person's life."

As California continues to address the mental health needs of its residents, AB 2556 represents a significant step forward in promoting awareness and early intervention for mental health issues among the state's youth.