Bill > HB252

This bill proposes to amend the Public School Code of 1949 to establish strict parental notification and consent requirements for school-provided mental health digital platforms. Under the proposed legislation, schools must obtain specific written permission from parents or legal guardians before allowing students to access a mental health services digital platform, which is defined as an electronic, internet-based tool providing mental health support, assessment, and treatment. The bill mandates that schools provide detailed written notification to parents at least 30 days before implementing such a platform, including a comprehensive description of the platform's practices, mission, and structure. Parents must be informed that they can request to be present while their child uses the platform, review and delete their child's collected personal information, and withdraw consent at any time. The bill also provides parents with a private right of action against the school's governing body if these requirements are not met. Key definitions are provided for terms like "mental health services" and "authorized school setting," ensuring clarity about the scope of the legislation. The bill aims to give parents more control and transparency regarding their children's access to digital mental health resources in school settings.

Education

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=252