Requires city, parish and other local public school boards to adopt and implement a program to facilitate behavior health intervention and referral for treatment. (8/1/24) (EN SEE FISC NOTE LF EX)
Impact
The enactment of SB 252 will likely reshape how local school boards approach student welfare. Each local public school board will be required to implement rules and procedures for identifying behavioral and emotional difficulties in students. This entails designating a specific staff member responsible for connecting families with local mental health resources. The bill intends to cultivate a proactive approach among school personnel when addressing students who demonstrate signs of potential issues, potentially minimizing disciplinary actions such as suspensions that can harm a student's educational experience.
Summary
Senate Bill 252 mandates local public school boards in Louisiana to establish programs aimed at addressing the behavioral and emotional challenges faced by students. The bill emphasizes the necessity for schools to identify these challenges early on and provide appropriate support through referral systems linking students and families to mental health services. By implementing these programs, the legislation aims to reduce student disruptions caused by unmanaged behavioral issues and facilitate more supportive school environments.
Sentiment
The legislative sentiment surrounding SB 252 appeared mostly positive, emphasizing the importance of mental health in the educational context. Supporters believe the bill is a vital step in normalizing conversations about behavioral health in schools and ensuring that students receive the necessary support at critical junctures in their educational journey. However, concerns may persist regarding the feasibility and resource allocation for implementing these programs, particularly in underfunded school districts.
Contention
While there was general support for SB 252, potential points of contention arise regarding the responsibility placed on schools and the adequacy of funding for such initiatives. Critics may argue about the expectations placed on school personnel, who may already face heavy workloads. The bill requires substantial reporting obligations and implementation specifics, which could pose challenges in terms of staffing and training. Ensuring these programs are effective and sustainable in various school environments across Louisiana remains a central concern.
Provides relative to compensation and other requirements for official journals of parishes, municipalities and school boards (EN SEE FISC NOTE LF EX See Note)
Urges and requests the Louisiana Department of Health to implement a digital platform to facilitate access to behavioral health services for certain conditions
Relating to the establishment of the Texas Board of Behavior Analyst Examiners and the requirement to obtain a license to practice as a behavior analyst or assistant behavior analyst; imposing fees; providing an administrative penalty.
Relating to the establishment of the Texas Board of Behavior Analyst Examiners and the requirement to obtain a license to practice as a behavior analyst or assistant behavior analyst; imposing fees; providing an administrative penalty; providing a civil penalty; creating a criminal offense.
Changes the name of "applied behavior assistant analyst" to "assistant applied behavior analyst" and makes several changes to provide consistency in the certification language for behavioral analysts.
Changes the name of "applied behavior assistant analyst" to "assistant applied behavior analyst" and makes several changes to provide consistency in the certification language for behavioral analysts.