Bill > A276

This bill establishes the "Student Mental Health Task Force," a 19-member group designed to comprehensively examine and address mental health challenges facing students in New Jersey. The task force will include representatives from various state agencies (such as Education, Health, and Children and Families), legislators, and public members with expertise in mental health, including two student representatives and a parent/guardian. The group's primary responsibilities include studying current mental health resources available to schools and parents, surveying mental health treatment services across counties and regions, and developing recommendations to improve student access to mental health care. The task force will specifically investigate issues like student depression, anxiety, stress, and emotional disorders, evaluate existing counseling programs, explore the connection between mental health and school safety, and assess funding needs for mental health support. Members will serve without compensation but will be reimbursed for necessary expenses, and the Department of Education will provide administrative support. Within one year of organizing, the task force must submit a comprehensive report to the Governor and Legislature, which will be distributed to every school district in the state. The task force will automatically dissolve 30 days after submitting its final report.

Education

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/A276