Bill > HB1179

This bill establishes a comprehensive mental health screening program for children and adolescents from birth to 19 years old in schools and childcare facilities across Arkansas. The legislation requires public schools, charter schools, private schools, and childcare facilities to implement evidence-based mental health screening programs with prior parental consent. The Department of Human Services, in consultation with the Department of Education, will develop a process to approve screening programs that are age-appropriate and effective at identifying potential mental health conditions. Schools must obtain written parental consent before conducting screenings and must notify parents of screening results and available mental health resources if a potential condition is identified. If funding is available, the Department of Human Services may provide financial assistance to help parents access additional mental health services that cannot be provided within the school setting. The bill also provides legal protection for trained school employees who administer screenings in good faith, shielding them from civil liability. The overall purpose of the bill is to improve mental healthcare access and outcomes for children and adolescents in Arkansas by proactively identifying potential mental health challenges.

Education

https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=hb1179&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R