California’s CARE Court, intended to provide vital support for individuals with severe mental health issues, has struggled to deliver on its promise, prompting widespread frustration among families and stakeholders.
The CARE Court Initiative
Launched by Governor Gavin Newsom in 2022, the Community Assistance, Recovery, and Empowerment (CARE) Act aimed to establish a civil court process to connect adults with schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders to essential mental health services and housing. Initially projected to serve between 7,000 and 12,000 individuals annually, the program began piloting in select counties like San Diego in October 2023, with a statewide rollout expected by the end of 2024.
Current Performance Metrics
Despite its noble intentions, CARE Court has seen disappointing enrollment numbers. As of April 2025, only 3,366 petitions had been filed statewide, with a mere 528 individuals engaged in treatment plans by mid-2025. The actual service delivery has fallen short of expectations, raising questions about the program’s efficacy amidst ongoing mental health crises in California.
Stakeholder Discontent
While some participants have benefitted from CARE Court, many families express deep disappointment. Interviews reveal frustrations over inadequate enforcement mechanisms and unmet promises regarding the program’s scale and impact. Ronda Deplazes, a mother advocating for her son under CARE Court, stated, “We get so pumped up with hope… the frustration and disappointment is more than a person can bear.” This sentiment reflects a broader concern regarding the program’s ability to adequately address California’s homelessness and mental health issues.
Compliance Impact
For legal and compliance professionals, the unfolding challenges of CARE Court necessitate vigilance. Stakeholders should:
- Monitor ongoing developments and performance metrics related to CARE Court.
- Prepare to adjust client strategies based on the program’s evolving effectiveness and participation rates.
- Engage with local mental health service providers to understand available resources and support systems.
The CARE Court’s mixed outcomes emphasize the importance of continuous evaluation to ensure that legislative initiatives fulfill their intended goals and effectively serve those in need.