Bill > SB1122

This bill establishes a temporary youth mental health service program in Tennessee designed to help young people access mental health support, particularly addressing mental health needs arising from the COVID-19 pandemic. The program will create a statewide web portal where youth under 18 can complete age-appropriate mental health screenings and connect with qualified mental health professionals for up to three free sessions, either in-person or via telehealth. The portal will help youth find providers who accept their insurance or can provide services regardless of payment source. The department responsible for the program must develop an application process for providers, set reimbursement rates, and conduct a public awareness campaign to promote the program, encouraged to involve schools, youth organizations, healthcare providers, and community groups. The program will be funded through the K-12 mental health special reserve account and will require the department to submit a report by July 1, 2026, detailing the number of youth served and aggregate information about the services provided. Importantly, the program is set to be deleted on July 1, 2026, making it a time-limited initiative to address immediate mental health needs among Tennessee's youth.

Health and Social Services, Justice

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SB1122&ga=114