School Mental Health Accessibility

 

The purpose of this bill is to ensure that every public middle and high school in the state has accessible, qualified

mental health professionals available to support student well-being, prevent crises, and promote academic success.

 

 

Students need consistent mental health support, but most schools only have part-time counselors or staff who juggle

teaching and counseling. A full-time, dedicated mental health counselor ensures students get help when they need it,

improving safety, well-being, and learning.

 

A. Mental Health Counselor – A licensed mental health professional qualified to provide counseling, crisis intervention,

and mental health education.

B. Public School – Any state-funded middle or high school under the supervision of a local school district.

C. Full-time – A position requiring at least 35 hours per week during the school year.

 

 

Funding shall be allocated through the State Department of Education’s annual budget, using existing school health and

safety funds.

No additional local taxes shall be imposed as a result of this bill.

 

 

The State Department of Education shall oversee implementation and ensure compliance through annual reports from each

school district.Any district failing to comply within two years of enactment shall risk loss of up to 5% of its state

education funding until compliance is achieved.

 

This act shall take effect on September 1, 2026.