Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB575

Introduced
10/30/23  
Refer
10/30/23  
Report Pass
11/8/23  
Refer
11/8/23  
Engrossed
11/14/23  
Refer
11/21/23  

Caption

The mental health training program provided by the Department of Public Instruction. (FE)

Impact

Should AB575 be enacted, it will require every school board and charter school governing board to develop a comprehensive plan addressing mental health issues. This plan should outline how to identify mental health conditions, the steps schools will take to address them, and include a list of local mental health service providers. This initiative aims to create a structured approach to mental health in educational settings, potentially addressing gaps in awareness and support for staff and pupils alike.

Summary

Assembly Bill 575, introduced by various representatives, aims to enhance the mental health training provided to school staff across Wisconsin. Specifically, the bill mandates the Department of Public Instruction (DPI) to annually distribute information about its mental health training program to school boards and independent charter school operators. The intent is to ensure that all educational institutions have access to necessary mental health resources and training to better support both staff and students in managing mental health challenges.

Contention

The bill has sparked discussions regarding the adequacy of mental health resources in schools, with proponents arguing it will significantly benefit educational environments by providing much-needed support. However, there may be pushback regarding the sufficiency of funding and the logistics of implementing such training programs effectively. Concerns about whether the mandates will place additional burdens on local authorities and whether adequate resources are available to support the proposed mental health initiatives have also been raised.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WI SB620

The mental health training program provided by the Department of Public Instruction. (FE)

WI SB329

Reading instruction in public schools and private schools participating in parental choice programs, an early literacy assessment and intervention program, providing an exemption from rule-making procedures, and granting rule-making authority. (FE)

WI AB321

Reading instruction in public schools and private schools participating in parental choice programs, an early literacy assessment and intervention program, providing an exemption from rule-making procedures, and granting rule-making authority. (FE)

WI AB590

Training to address student mental health and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI SB534

Training to address student mental health and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI SB10

Pupil or minor access to harmful material in public libraries and to harmful material or offensive material in public schools. (FE)

WI SB198

Model academic standards related to American Indian studies, informational materials related to a school board's obligation to provide instruction on American Indians, and the American Indian studies requirement for teacher licensure. (FE)

WI AB209

Model academic standards related to American Indian studies, informational materials related to a school board's obligation to provide instruction on American Indians, and the American Indian studies requirement for teacher licensure. (FE)

WI AB15

Pupil or minor access to harmful material in public libraries and to harmful material or offensive material in public schools. (FE)

WI HB18

Relating to consideration of the mental health of public school students in training requirements for certain school employees, curriculum requirements, counseling programs, educational programs, state and regional programs and services, and health care services for students and to mental health first aid program training and reporting regarding local mental health authority and school district personnel.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.