Bill > HB244

This bill modifies provisions governing mental health efforts in public schools by introducing several key changes. Starting in the 2026-27 school year, the legislation requires suicide prevention training for educators that includes using the Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS) for suicide risk assessment and training on a new virtual mental health tool. School districts must update their suicide awareness policies to incorporate these new training requirements. The bill mandates that public schools serving grades 7-12 include suicide prevention hotline numbers (988 and local crisis numbers) on student identification cards. Additionally, the bill expands mental health awareness training, requiring instruction for high school students and introducing a new requirement for students in grades 5-8 to receive age-appropriate mental health education. The Missouri Department of Mental Health is tasked with developing a virtual tool by July 1, 2026, that will provide mental health resources, screening questions, and support information. The bill, which includes the "Jason Flatt/Avery Reine Cantor Act" and "Brennan's Law", aims to improve mental health awareness, suicide prevention, and support for students across Missouri's school system.

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB244&year=2025&code=R