CA lawmakers approve mental health care plan for homeless

By JANIE HAR and ADAM BEAM
Associated Press

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — California will establish a new court program to steer and even force homeless people with severe mental disorders into treatment after lawmakers on Wednesday gave final approval to a proposal pitched by Gov. Gavin Newsom. Passage came despite overwhelming objection from civil liberties advocates who fear it will force unhoused residents into treatment. Newsom said the proposal is a new way to identify people who need help. The program allows family members and others to petition a new civil court to evaluate a person for a treatment plan. Critics say there are not enough beds, homes and therapists for the program to work.