Bill > HB1709

This bill amends the existing Human Services Workers in the Schools Program to include mental health counselors, expanding the program's scope and services. The program, a collaborative effort between various state divisions and local school districts, aims to support children and families by promoting child safety, strengthening families, and supporting community well-being. The bill adds mental health counselors as program participants, requiring them to have a bachelor's or master's degree in mental health or counseling, similar to the existing requirement for human services workers. The services provided will now include both human services workers and mental health counselors, who can offer crisis intervention, school conferences, home visits, transportation, parent training, service referrals, coping skills training, and needs assessments. Funding will continue to be targeted to schools where at least 80% of children are eligible for the Free and Reduced Lunch Program, with the state education and children and family services divisions developing eligibility criteria. The program will be annually evaluated by the Coordinated Health Services Section, and parents and students retain the option to decline recommended services. This expansion aims to provide more comprehensive support for students and families in schools.

Education

https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=hb1709&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R