Texas House Bill HB4033

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the employment of certain mental health professionals at a public school campus.

Impact

The bill is set to significantly impact staffing requirements within school districts across Texas. By ensuring that mental health professionals are available to students, the legislation seeks to promote better mental health outcomes and provide essential services. The measure is expected to address a growing need for mental health support among students, especially in light of increasing awareness around mental health issues. Furthermore, it underscores the state's commitment to improving educational environments by integrating mental health care directly within the school system.

Summary

House Bill 4033 aims to enhance mental health services in public schools by mandating the employment of licensed mental health professionals. It specifies that school districts with an average daily attendance of 500 or more students are required to employ one mental health professional for every 500 students. For smaller districts, the bill allows for flexible arrangements, such as hiring part-time professionals or sharing services among districts. This initiative highlights the growing recognition of the importance of mental health support in educational settings.

Contention

While the intent behind HB 4033 is largely viewed as positive, there may be concerns regarding the implementation and funding of these requirements. Opponents could argue that hiring additional staff may strain budgets, particularly in smaller districts with limited resources. Moreover, the requirement for parental consent before providing mental health services may lead to hesitancy in accessing care, potentially limiting students' ability to receive timely assistance.