Join us for a live webinar.

This webinar will provide an overview of two new mental health laws in California: SB 43 (Grave Disability) and CARE Court. We will share plain-language explanations of how each of these new laws can lead to involuntary commitment for Californians with mental health disabilities and what an individual’s rights are when interacting with these new laws.

Spanish Interpreters, ASL Interpreters Available

About the webinar:

Two new mental health laws are in the process of being implemented in California: SB 43, a 2023 law that expanded the definition of grave disability, and CARE Court, a 2022 law that created a new program through the legal system for people with certain mental health diagnoses. This webinar will describe how these new laws can lead to involuntary commitment and other outcomes for Californians with mental health disabilities. Our goal is to break down the complex laws to explain the changes to people who may be affected and to explain how these new laws fit into the existing system of California’s mental health laws.

Speakers:

Vanessa Ramos, a survivor of the Los Angeles drug war, leverages her diverse background in corporate, government, and non-profit sectors to advocate for community-driven solutions. Passionate about addressing state violence and promoting anti-carceral solutions like sustainable housing and mental health initiatives, she draws from her journey through ableist systems. Vanessa shares mindfulness practices across California, blending her expertise in yoga and peace literacy. As a devoted mother, she nurtures inclusive art and green spaces in Hollywood, enriching her community with compassion and dedication.

Sabrina Epstein, a Policy Analyst at Disability Rights California. She works on issues affecting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including health care and housing. Her work is informed by her own experience as a disabled person.

Samuel Jain, a senior mental health policy attorney at Disability Rights California (DRC). He has a long history of involvement in California’s mental health system as an advocate, peer, family member, and former provider. Prior to joining DRC, Samuel was a mental health patients’ rights advocate in Santa Clara County for 5.5 years. He served as president of the California Association of Mental Health Patients’ Rights Advocates (CAMHPRA) and was awarded “Advocate of the Year” in 2019. He was formerly appointed to the Patients’ Rights Committee of the California Behavioral Health Planning Council and is currently a member of the DHCS Behavioral Health Stakeholder Advisory Committee. Samuel strongly believes in the importance of protecting the rights of mental health consumers and advocating for holistic services. He lives in Sacramento with his partner, daughter, and two cats.