(a)  The Legislature finds that recent responsibilities for assessing and treating the mental disorders of children and adolescents have been required of county mental health programs creating an unmet need for personnel in the field of mental health who have expertise in preventing, diagnosing, and treating the mental and emotional disorders of children.

(b)  Recent attention to child abuse cases has increased the awareness of the special needs of children who are victims of abuse and of those who are then called to the courtroom as witnesses. Mental health personnel with special training are also needed for these children.

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(Added by Stats. 1995, Ch. 415, Sec. 8. Effective January 1, 1996.)