Bill > HB3396

This bill establishes a three-year pilot program to develop school-based mental and behavioral health services as an alternative to traditional student disciplinary measures. The program will be available to schools that either have a school-based health center or an expanded school mental health framework. Participating schools must provide mental and behavioral health services through direct employment or contracts, offering services for various levels of student needs. Mental health professionals involved in the program will be authorized to receive referrals from schools or judicial systems, conduct student assessments, provide ongoing treatment, and engage with students' families. They can also offer services to family members and community members, with priority given to students and their families. The program allows these mental health professionals to bill and collect payments from insurance, the school, or the Department of Health depending on the referral source. The bill defines key terms such as "expanded school mental health framework" and "mental and behavioral health services" to clarify the scope of the pilot program. The overall goal is to address student behavioral issues through supportive, therapeutic interventions rather than punitive disciplinary actions.