|
For press inquiries contact:
Rosalinda Boyette
Communications and Public Relations Manager
rboyette@cccbha.org
(916) 557-1166
On October 10th, World Mental Health Day, Governor Gavin Newsom of California signed AB 1412 (Hart) into law to remove borderline personality disorder (BPD) as an exclusion from the Pretrial Prison Diversion program. Since 2018, California Penal Code 1001.26 has allowed pretrial diversion for people with mental health disorders like bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and major depression. Still, it specifically excluded people diagnosed with BPD from petitioning for pretrial diversion, to receive care that would reduce recidivism and help them safely reintegrate with their communities.
This represents a victory for BPD clients and advocacy organizations including the bill’s sponsor, California Council of Community Behavioral Health Agencies (CBHA) and national partners Emotions Matter Inc. and the National Education Alliance for Borderline Personality Disorder.
Approximately 1.6% of the U. S. population is affected by borderline personality disorder (BPD), a highly stigmatized mental illness characterized by emotional dysregulation, and struggles with self-harm and suicidality. Up to 70% of those diagnosed with BPD experience a suicide attempt, and tragically, 10% die by suicide (Goodman, Roiff, Oakes, & Paris, 2012).
People diagnosed with BPD are often wrongfully depicted in the mainstream media as crazy, unable to maintain relationships, or live successful lives. Compared to other mental disorders, people with BPD are more frequently described by using pejorative language, such as “difficult” or “manipulative.” (Masland et al., 2018).
Contrary to public perception, scientific research shows that BPD actually has a high rate of remission with low rates of relapse over the course of the disorder from childhood to adulthood (Temes & Zanarini, 2018). With treatment and support, more than 90% of those diagnosed with BPD can experience stability and achieve meaningful lives.
“When I learned about this bill proposal from a CBHA member who resides in my district, I was immediately intrigued and concerned about the discrimination against individuals with a Borderline Personality Disorder” said Assemblymember Gregg Hart who represents California’s 37th Assembly District. “California law needs to afford those with BPD the opportunity to participate in pretrial diversion and move towards a productive and fulfilling life. I am proud to have authored this important bill and that opportunities it will afford those living with BPD.”
“This is a critical step forward for people with BPD to be treated with the same access to treatment as those with other mental health conditions.” said Paula Tusiani-Eng, LMSW, M.Div, Director of Strategic Growth at Emotions Matter. “Our members with lived experience of BPD now feel heard and empowered to address the systemic discrimination within the health care system against people with BPD.”
"Passing AB1412 demonstrates the power of grassroots advocacy, driven by family members and people with lived experience, to engage in legislative efforts to increase education about BPD, and improve access to care," commented Abby Ingber, Executive Director of the National Education Alliance for Borderline Personality Disorder.
“CBHA is committed to ensuring equity in all of the policy changes it advocates for. When our Board member, Harry Bruell, approached us to discuss the disparity in law, we immediately went to work to determine the history of this exclusion and what needed to be done to change the law. We are grateful to Assemblymember Hart for being our legislative champion and the many organizations and individuals who testified, wrote letters and urged the Governor to sign the bill. The collective support from a community of concerned individuals is what made the difference, and we are proud that AB 1412 is now California law.” commented Le Ondra Clark Harvey, CEO, CBHA
The California Council of Community Behavioral Health Agencies (CBHA) promotes comprehensive, responsive, and integrated service systems by enhancing the ability of behavioral health safety net providers to empower the people they serve to lead full and productive lives. Its services include legislative advocacy and shaping public policy amongst others. For more information: https://www.cccbha.org.
Emotions Matter, a 501c3 non-profit organization founded in 2015 to advocate for, educate and support people diagnosed with BPD to achieve recovery. Its services include BPD peer support groups and educational programs, and empowering events to address stigma. For more information: www.emotionsmatterbpd.org.
The National Education Alliance for Borderline Personality Disorder is a 501c3 non-profit organization to provide education, raise public awareness and understanding, decrease stigma, promote research, and enhance the quality of life of those affected by BPD. Its services included family support groups and educational programs. For more information: https://www.borderlinepersonalitydisorder.org/
| 
