Bill > HB355

This bill provides a state financial supplement for public schools in Missouri to hire school nurses and mental health professionals, subject to legislative appropriation. Under the proposed law, school districts can apply to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education for funding to employ one licensed nurse or mental health professional per school. The supplement will not exceed the individual's salary on the district-approved salary schedule. The department will prioritize schools with the greatest need, considering factors like nurse/mental health professional-to-student ratios, percentage of students eligible for free and reduced lunch, and Title I funding participation. As an alternative to hiring on-site professionals, schools may use the supplement to reimburse telehealth service providers, with specific requirements for parental authorization. The bill establishes two dedicated funds in the state treasury - one for school nurses and another for mental health professionals - to receive and manage the financial supplements. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education will develop rules for implementing the program, including ensuring the professionals primarily perform student health and mental health duties, establishing application procedures, and determining how to award supplements if applications exceed available funding.

Education

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB355&year=2025&code=R