Bill > HB1035

This bill creates policies and resources to address secondary traumatic stress (STS) in the higher education workforce, specifically targeting community and technical colleges and regional universities. The bill requires the college board and regional universities to develop model policies that include a commitment to mental health support, promoting a positive workplace climate focused on diversity and inclusion, and establishing campus-wide workforce mental health committees. These committees will share resources, self-assessment tools, and mental health supports, and report annually to their respective boards. By September 1, 2025, these institutions must publicly post their model policies, and by the 2025-26 academic year, they must adopt or amend policies incorporating these elements. Additionally, the bill mandates that these institutions publish website links to resources, self-assessments, and best practices for preventing and addressing secondary traumatic stress, with collaboration from the public employees' benefits board and the council of presidents. Secondary traumatic stress refers to the emotional strain experienced by professionals who work with individuals who have experienced trauma, and this bill aims to provide support and resources to help educational staff manage this potential workplace challenge.