Bill > SB913

This bill, titled the Virtual Mental Health in Schools Act, establishes requirements for school entities (public, charter, private, and technical schools) in Pennsylvania to obtain parental consent before providing or coordinating virtual mental health services for students under 18 years old. The bill defines "virtual mental health services" as web-based services that include access to online peer support communities, counseling or mental health support from individuals who are not licensed mental health professionals in Pennsylvania, and behavioral health support from artificial intelligence. The bill also defines a "qualified professional" who can provide these services. The bill prohibits school entities from providing or coordinating any virtual mental health services without the consent of the student's parent or guardian, and it clarifies that the act does not authorize the unlicensed practice of mental health services or grant immunity from criminal or civil penalties.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2023&sind=0&body=S&type=B&bn=913