Bill > H3478

This bill establishes a comprehensive Mental Health Screening Program in South Carolina's public schools for students in grades six through twelve, aimed at identifying and addressing students' mental and behavioral health needs. The program requires participating schools to conduct annual mental health screenings using evidence-based tools, with parental notification and an opt-out option. Screeners must review results within 24 hours, notify parents if additional services are needed, and immediately report any imminent risks of self-harm or harm to others. The bill also creates a Mental Health Intervention Grant Program to support local education agencies in implementing mental health services, mandates Medicaid reimbursement for school-based mental health services, and introduces a provision that categorizes mental health-related absences as excused absences starting in the 2026-2027 school year. The program will expand by 20% annually, prioritizing school districts with high Medicaid enrollment and mental health crisis line referrals. Importantly, the bill emphasizes protecting student privacy and ensures that collected information is deidentified and used only for program administration. The legislation is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, and includes provisions to protect the constitutionality of the act if any part is challenged.

Education

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=3478&session=126&summary=B