Bill > S550

This bill requires youth athletics coaches in North Carolina to receive training in youth mental health first aid, aiming to improve coaches' ability to recognize and respond to mental health challenges among young athletes. Specifically, the bill mandates that the State Board of Education develop rules requiring all middle and high school coaches and athletic directors to obtain certification from an approved youth mental health first aid training program. These programs must teach coaches how to recognize signs of mental health and substance abuse challenges, assist youth experiencing such challenges, and connect them with professional resources. The bill also requires local governments to ensure that youth athletics organizations using public facilities can demonstrate that their coaches have this certification. The National Council for Mental Wellbeing's Youth Mental Health First Aid and Teen Mental Health First Aid courses are initially designated as the approved training programs, with the State Board of Education able to review and update these selections periodically. The requirements will take effect on July 1, 2026, giving schools and organizations time to implement the necessary training programs and ensure coach certification.

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/S550