Bill > A08390

This bill requires the New York State Department of Education to submit a comprehensive annual report on school mental health professionals, specifically focusing on counselors, social workers, and psychologists. The report must detail the number of full and part-time professionals in each school, the student-to-professional ratios, and whether these professionals are serving multiple schools. Following the report, the commissioner must develop a proposal to increase the number of these professionals to meet nationally accepted standards, as recommended by professional associations like the School Social Work Association of America and the American School Counselors Association. The bill defines these professionals as licensed and certified personnel providing individual or group counseling in elementary, middle, or high schools. Additionally, the bill authorizes the commissioner to provide additional funding to school districts for employing these mental health professionals, with an annual cost allowance to be prescribed. The goal is to improve mental health support and counseling services for students by ensuring adequate staffing and resources in schools. The act will take effect immediately upon passage.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A8390