Bill > HB2498

This bill modifies Arizona's school safety program to expand the definition of mental health professionals who can be placed in schools and receive funding. The bill replaces references to "school counselors" and "school social workers" with the broader term "school-based mental health professionals," which now includes certified school counselors, school social workers, school psychologists, and licensed behavioral health providers who meet specific criteria for working in schools. The bill maintains the existing program's core structure, which allows school districts and charter schools to apply for grants to support the placement of mental health professionals and school resource officers. Program proposals must include detailed descriptions of school safety needs, implementation plans, and evaluation methods. The Department of Education will continue to review and administer these proposals, assess school needs using relevant statistics, and distribute funding to approved programs. The bill also requires an annual report to state leadership detailing the program's effectiveness and impact, and maintains provisions for ongoing program review by the auditor general. The goal remains supporting safe and effective learning environments by providing mental health and law-related education resources in schools.

Education

https://apps.azleg.gov/BillStatus/BillOverview/82299