Bill > HB24

This bill establishes a school-linked behavioral health grant program administered by Georgia's Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities to support student mental health services. The program aims to help K-12 schools identify and intervene early for students with mental health or substance use disorders. Eligible applicants include community service boards, community mental health centers, licensed healthcare providers specializing in mental health treatment, and Medicaid providers who treat children and families. Grant activities can cover a wide range of services, such as diagnosing mental health conditions, providing treatment (including via telehealth), supporting families in navigating healthcare and social services, offering transportation for behavioral health services, building school staff capacity through professional development, and purchasing equipment needed for telehealth services. Importantly, grantees must seek all available third-party reimbursement sources (excluding local school systems) and must serve students regardless of their health coverage or ability to pay. Grantees will also be required to collect and provide data to help the department evaluate the program's effectiveness. The bill represents a comprehensive approach to addressing student mental health needs by creating a flexible funding mechanism for schools and mental health providers to collaborate.

Education

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/69304