Bill > A00610

This bill requires the New York State Education Department to develop and implement standardized ratios of health and mental health professionals to students in public schools, addressing a critical need highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on student well-being. The legislation aims to ensure that students who do not receive services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) still have timely, in-person access to school-based health and mental health services. Specifically, the bill mandates that school districts employ school nurses, psychologists, counselors, and social workers in each school building at proportions to be determined by the state commissioner of education. The definition of "public school" is broad, encompassing traditional school districts, BOCES (Boards of Cooperative Educational Services), special act school districts, preschool special education programs, and approved private schools for students with disabilities. The bill recognizes that unaddressed mental health needs can lead to serious issues like depression, drug use, eating disorders, and increased vulnerability to abuse, and seeks to provide comprehensive support for students' socio-emotional health through consistent professional presence in schools.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A610