Bill > SB1370

This bill modifies an existing law to require the Department of Education to develop a model memorandum of understanding (MOU) for school boards to partner with community mental health services or school-based telehealth providers. The updated MOU will now explicitly include procedures for students to receive counseling from school counselors via telehealth, with a specific requirement for parental consent for students under 18 years old. The bill mandates that the model MOU set clear parameters for mental health services, including teletherapy and telehealth counseling, while also addressing effective practices and privacy considerations for information exchange. This legislation appears to be a recommendation from a joint subcommittee studying pandemic response and preparedness, likely aimed at expanding mental health support options for students in a flexible, technology-enabled manner. The bill seeks to provide schools with a standardized framework for implementing telehealth counseling services, ensuring that such services are implemented with appropriate safeguards and parental involvement.

Education, Health and Social Services

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20251/SB1370