Relating to school-based health services, including the administration of the school health and related services program and the provision and Medicaid reimbursement of certain services to certain public school students.
Impact
The bill incorporates amendments to both the Education Code and the Government Code, establishing explicit provisions for school health and related services programs. Key among these is the assurance that all Medicaid-enrolled students receiving services will be eligible for reimbursement. Furthermore, the Health and Human Services Commission will be responsible for implementing measures that ensure the integrity of these programs and compliance with applicable federal standards, impacting budget allocations and oversight mechanisms for the respective services provided in schools.
Summary
House Bill 2129 is designed to enhance school-based health services across Texas, focusing on the integration of mental and behavioral health services within public schools. The bill enables school districts to contract with local mental health authorities to offer these services directly on campus. Upon the request of a student's parent or guardian, the mental health authority could provide assessments and ongoing support while ensuring communication with the student's primary care physician regarding treatment outcomes.
Contention
One potential point of contention involves the administrative responsibilities assigned to local education agencies and mental health providers under the bill. Critics may argue that while the goal of providing on-campus mental health services is laudable, it could impose significant burdens on school districts in terms of administration and maintaining compliance with state and federal regulations. Additionally, financial implications surrounding Medicaid reimbursements may also lead to debate over the adequacy of funding necessary to support these initiatives effectively.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Education Code
Chapter 38. Health And Safety
Section: New Section
Government Code
Chapter 532. Medicaid Administration And Operation In General
Relating to the administration, provision, and Medicaid reimbursement of mental health or behavioral health services provided to certain public school students.
Relating to the provision of on-campus mental health services by a school district and reimbursement under Medicaid for certain services provided to eligible students.
Relating to the school health and related services program, including parental consent for program services, the establishment of a school health and related services program advisory council, and the publication of the School Health and Related Services (SHARS) Handbook portion of the Texas Medicaid Provider Procedures Manual.
Relating to measures for ensuring safety and security in public schools, including measures related to the health and safety of public school students and active shooter training for certain peace officers.
Relating to dyslexia evaluations and services for public school students, the provision of services for students with dyslexia and related disorders, and certain parental notice regarding the rights of parents of public school students with disabilities.
Relating to the nonsubstantive revision of the health and human services laws governing the Health and Human Services Commission, Medicaid, and other social services.