California Welfare And Institutions Code Section 14680

(a) The Legislature finds and declares that there is a need to establish a standard set of guidelines that governs the provision of managed Medi-Cal mental health services at the local level, consistent with federal law. (b) Therefore, in order to ensure quality and continuity, and to efficiently utilize mental health services under the Medi-Cal program, there shall be developed mental health plans for the provision of those services that are consistent with guidelines established by the State Department of Mental Health. (c) It is the intent of the Legislature that mental health plans be developed and implemented regardless of whether other systems of Medi-Cal managed care are implemented. (d) It is further the intent of the Legislature that Sections 14681 to 14685, inclusive, shall not be construed to mandate the participation of counties in Medi-Cal managed mental health care plans.