California 2021-2022 Regular Session

California Assembly Bill AB2091

Introduced
2/14/22  
Introduced
2/14/22  
Refer
3/24/22  
Report Pass
3/24/22  
Report Pass
3/24/22  
Refer
3/28/22  
Report Pass
4/5/22  
Report Pass
4/5/22  
Refer
4/7/22  
Refer
4/7/22  
Report Pass
4/27/22  
Refer
4/27/22  
Refer
4/27/22  
Report Pass
5/11/22  
Report Pass
5/11/22  
Engrossed
5/26/22  
Engrossed
5/26/22  
Refer
5/27/22  
Refer
6/8/22  
Report Pass
6/15/22  
Refer
6/15/22  
Report Pass
6/30/22  
Refer
6/30/22  
Refer
6/30/22  
Report Pass
8/1/22  
Refer
8/1/22  
Refer
8/1/22  
Enrolled
8/31/22  
Chaptered
9/27/22  
Passed
9/27/22  

Caption

Disclosure of information: reproductive health and foreign penal civil actions.

Impact

If enacted, AB 2091 will significantly influence how health is taught in schools, compelling educators to integrate mental health topics alongside traditional physical health education. This change reflects a growing recognition of the importance of mental health in the educational context and seeks to normalize discussions around it, equipping students with vital coping mechanisms. Schools will need to adapt their current curricula and possibly allocate additional resources towards training teachers and incorporating relevant materials, which may require increased funding and support from state education agencies.

Summary

Assembly Bill 2091 seeks to enhance the educational framework surrounding mental health and physical well-being in schools across the state. The proposed legislation mandates that all public and charter schools develop and implement comprehensive health education curricula that adequately address mental health issues in addition to physical health. This initiative aims to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to foster resilience and promote overall well-being during their formative years, particularly as they navigate the challenges of modern education.

Sentiment

The sentiment around AB 2091 appears to be largely supportive, especially among mental health advocates and educators who acknowledge the pressing need for improved health education in schools. Proponents argue that addressing mental health in academic settings can lead to better student outcomes, reduced stigma surrounding mental health issues, and a more supportive school environment. However, some concerns have been raised regarding the feasibility of implementing these changes within existing school structures, particularly regarding resource allocation and potential pushback from parents and community members who may be hesitant about expanded health education.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding AB 2091 include debates over the adequacy of resources allocated for training educators and implementing the new curricula, as well as discussions about parental rights and the appropriateness of specific mental health topics within school settings. Critics worry that without sufficient training and funding, the bill may not achieve its intended goals and could lead to inconsistencies in how mental health is addressed across different schools. Additionally, some pushback has emerged concerning the age-appropriateness of certain topics, creating a dialogue on how best to balance educational content with community values and expectations.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

CA SB107

Gender-affirming health care.

CA SB497

Legally protected health care activity.

CA AB2527

Incarceration: pregnant persons.

CA AB45

Privacy: health data: location and research.