What is AB 96 and Why Does It Matter?
AB 96 aims to broaden the scope of community health workers by recognizing the essential role of Peer Support Specialists in the behavioral health system. Under this proposed amendment, PSSs will have the ability to contract with Medi-Cal Managed Care Plans (MCPs) to provide preventive services, in line with the guidelines set by Title 42 CFR Section § 440.130 (c).
The passage of AB 96 is important for several reasons. First, it empowers Peer Support Specialists—individuals with lived experience in mental health or substance use recovery—to play a formal, contracted role in providing services to Medi-Cal enrollees. Peer Support Specialists already contribute invaluable insights and support to individuals who are navigating their own recovery journeys. Allowing them to be part of the Medi-Cal framework ensures that people seeking help are met with relatable, empathetic care. This expansion ultimately enhances the capacity of the behavioral health workforce and makes preventive services more accessible to underserved communities.
The Value of Peer Support Specialists
Peer Support Specialists are individuals who have lived through mental health challenges or substance use recovery and are trained to use their personal experiences to assist others. Their role is critical in behavioral health systems because they provide empathetic support, mentorship, and guidance to individuals who may feel isolated in their struggles. The relationship between a Peer Support Specialist and the person they are helping is based on shared experience, which fosters trust and hope.
Research has shown that Peer Support Specialists can lead to better outcomes for individuals receiving care. They help reduce stigma, encourage engagement in services, and promote long-term recovery. Their lived experience allows them to resonate with clients in a way that traditional providers may not be able to. By expanding their role in the system, AB 96 acknowledges the unique value they bring to the table.
The Role of SAMHSA
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is a federal agency that has long recognized the importance of Peer Support Specialists. SAMHSA provides guidance, resources, and funding to support the integration of Peer Support Specialists into the behavioral health workforce. SAMHSA’s emphasis on peer support aligns with the objectives of AB 96, which seeks to formalize the role of Peer Support Specialists within Medi-Cal's infrastructure.
SAMHSA’s work helps shape national policies and provides evidence-based practices that show how Peer Support Specialists contribute to improving care, reducing hospitalization rates, and promoting long-term recovery. By aligning state legislation with federal priorities, AB 96 is an important step in ensuring that California’s Medi-Cal enrollees receive high-quality, equitable behavioral health services that leverage peer support as a core element.
Why Support AB 96?
Passing AB 96 is an opportunity to advance equitable access to behavioral health services, particularly for Medi-Cal enrollees who often face significant barriers to care. By including Peer Support Specialists in Medi-Cal’s framework, we can better meet the needs of individuals dealing with mental health or substance use issues. Peer Support Specialists not only enhance the capacity of the behavioral health workforce but also offer a unique, compassionate form of care that can truly make a difference in people’s lives.
The benefits of AB 96 go beyond expanding the role of Peer Support Specialists—they promote a more inclusive, person-centered approach to mental health services. As we continue to strive for greater equity in behavioral health care, legislation like AB 96 is vital for making a tangible, positive impact.
We urge you to support AB 96 and help California move toward a future where people have access to the support they need to thrive, with Peer Support Specialists at the heart of this transformation.
Conclusion
AB 96 represents a pivotal opportunity to strengthen California’s behavioral health services by expanding the role of Peer Support Specialists. This important legislation will not only enhance the workforce but also improve access to preventive services for Medi-Cal enrollees. Supported by SAMHSA’s work and a growing recognition of the value of peer support, AB 96 stands as a promising step forward in providing better, more equitable care to those in need.