Bill > SB121

This bill provides a framework for optional annual mental health screenings in Louisiana public schools for students in kindergarten through twelfth grade. Under the proposed legislation, school boards may offer mental health screenings during the first semester, but must first obtain written parental consent before conducting any screening, with exceptions for students who have reached the age of majority or are emancipated minors. Parents must be notified about the screening tool, which will be made available on the school or district website, and schools are required to provide resources if screening results indicate a potential mental health condition. The Louisiana Department of Health will be responsible for selecting appropriate screening tools and providing them at no cost to school districts. The bill emphasizes confidentiality, mandating that screening results can only be shared with parents or the student and must be destroyed within 30 days of notification. Importantly, schools cannot use screening results to make decisions about student instruction, academic opportunities, or discipline, and the bill provides legal protection for school authorities from potential lawsuits related to the screenings. The legislation also applies these requirements to charter schools, ensuring consistent implementation across different types of public schools, and is subject to school board approval and funding.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://www.legis.la.gov/legis/BillInfo.aspx?s=25rs&b=SB121&sbi=y