As you know, many State Hospital employees were sent SROA/Surplus letters notifying them of the reduction in positions at the State Hospitals.  The most important thing I want each person to know is that our ultimate goal is to have zero layoffs.

I have been in state service for many years, and I have overseen many reorganizations and position reductions, and it is always an uncertain time. I can’t change the fact that the Department must eliminate 600 positions to meet its budgetary obligations. What I can promise you is that we understand that real people and real lives are being affected, and we will do everything in our power to keep you informed and to work with you to find alternative employment.   

We recently went through the layoff process in Sacramento due to the realignment of mental health functions to the counties and other departments. In that case, 123 positions were cut in Sacramento. Due to employees’ efforts to find new positions outside the Department, retirement, attrition, and Human Resources’ placement of people in vacant DMH positions, not one person lost their job.

Facing the possibility of unemployment is incredibly stressful, and we want all employees to know that we will support you in taking the needed steps to protect your family, your income, and your career. I speak for the Executive Team, Hospital Executive Directors, and Human Resources staff when I say we understand the gravity of making cuts which will affect people's livelihood. We are committed to providing you with updated information on these webpages, as well as tools and resources to aid in your job search. By doing so, we hope to meet our fiscal obligations without having to layoff any of our committed and dedicated employees.

Cliff Allenby
Acting Director
Department of Mental Health