Bill > HB5247

This bill establishes a three-year pilot program managed by the State Department of Education to offer mental and behavioral health services in schools as an alternative to suspending students for disciplinary issues. The program defines "expanded school mental health framework" as a collaborative effort between the Department of Education and the Bureau for Behavioral Health and Health Facilities to provide these services, and "mental and behavioral health services" as any individualized or group support, including therapeutic or emotional help. Schools participating in the pilot must either have a "school-based health center" on campus that offers these services or have implemented the expanded school mental health framework. Participating schools are required to provide these services through directly employed staff or contractors, ensuring availability for all levels of need. These professionals can receive referrals for students who violate disciplinary codes or are referred by the court system for treatment as part of a diversion or disposition, conduct assessments, provide ongoing services, and involve the student's family and household members by offering them services as well, and even extend services to the wider community after prioritizing students and their families. The program also outlines a payment structure, allowing schools to bill insurance for families and community members, the school itself for behavioral referrals, or the Department of Human Services for court-ordered services.

Education

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=5247&year=2026&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill