Texas House Bill HB1640

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to establishing a pilot program to employ a life skills counselor at public high school campuses in certain counties.

Impact

The implementation of the life skills counselor pilot program is expected to improve the mental health landscape within public high schools in the identified counties. School districts will be required to hire counselors who are specifically trained to work with students facing emotional challenges. These counselors will collaborate with school administrators, social workers, and local law enforcement to create a comprehensive support network aimed at fostering a safer and more supportive school environment for students dealing with issues such as anxiety and other emotional distress.

Summary

House Bill 1640 aims to establish a pilot program to employ life skills counselors at public high school campuses situated in specific counties in Texas. This initiative is designed to address emotional and mental health concerns among students by providing them with professional support through dedicated counselors. The bill identifies eligible counties as those adjacent to other counties that border the Gulf of Mexico and the international border, thus narrowing the scope of the program to certain geographic regions with specific needs.

Contention

While the bill was met with unanimous support, the establishment of such programs has historically sparked debates regarding the adequacy of funding and the effectiveness of additional personnel in addressing mental health needs in schools. Critics may express concerns about whether the state’s investment in this pilot program will sufficiently address the complex emotional issues students face and whether it might distract from other necessary educational resources.

Next_steps

The bill instructs the commissioner of education to implement the pilot program starting from the 2020-2021 school year and requires a review to assess its effectiveness by January 1, 2025. This review will provide insights that could shape future efforts to expand mental health services in schools statewide.