The California Chamber of Commerce and 21 local chambers of commerce today announced their support for the CARE Court proposal, as embodied in SB 1338 (Umberg-Eggman).
“California employers have a clear stake in improving the treatment and outcomes for severely mentally ill individuals without a fixed residence,” said CalChamber President and CEO Jennifer Barrera. “Not only do we have an obligation of care as fellow Californians, but many employers share neighborhoods with mentally ill individuals or those dealing with substance abuse addictions and can attest to the failure so far to adequately serve these individuals who are in crisis. The issues surrounding the tragedy of homelessness in California are impacting the ability of businesses to operate in healthy, thriving communities.”
Governor Gavin Newsom issued the following statement:
“I am grateful to have the California Chamber of Commerce, and 21 local chambers across the state join our ever-expanding CARE Court coalition, which includes a broad range of support for tackling the challenge of severe mental illness that too often leaves individuals on our streets without hope,” said Governor Newsom. “Like others in our coalition, small businesses throughout the state recognize that the status quo is not working, and that a paradigm shift is needed to address the mental health crisis seen throughout California.”
According to CalChamber and local chamber executives, the CARE Courts proposal is a thoughtful, measured response to the tragedy of homelessness in California. The proposal provides a prudent, judicious approach to serve what has been a historically intractable problem.
A copy of the support letter signed by CalChamber and local chambers can be found here.
The California Chamber of Commerce (CalChamber) is the largest broad-based business advocate to government in California. Membership represents one-quarter of the private sector jobs in California and includes firms of all sizes and companies from every industry within the state. Leveraging our front-line knowledge of laws and regulations, we provide products and services to help businesses comply with both federal and state law. CalChamber, a not-for-profit organization with roots dating to 1890, promotes international trade and investment in order to stimulate California’s economy and create jobs. Please visit our website at www.calchamber.com
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