Bill > HB1706

This bill, titled "In school health services, providing for student mental health awareness," amends the Public School Code of 1949 to enhance student mental health support within schools. It mandates that the Department of Education, in consultation with the Departments of Health and Human Services, develop and publish guidelines and educational materials on its website to inform students, parents, guardians, and coaches about the signs of mental health distress and illness. Furthermore, school entities, which include school districts, charter schools, and other educational institutions, must inform students and their families twice annually about available mental health services within the school or community and how to access them. The bill also introduces a requirement for school entities to refer students to their student assistance programs, which are defined as programs providing support as outlined in 22 Pa. Code § 12.16, if a student is habitually truant, shows a significant change in behavior, or suddenly stops participating in school-sponsored activities without explanation; this referral must occur within 14 days of the school entity becoming aware of the situation. Additionally, the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA) is required to update its coach education requirements to include student mental health awareness training, starting with the 2027-2028 school year, with this training potentially counting towards continuing professional education for educators.

Education

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1706