Peer Helpers PLUS Act; create to provide counseling, education and mental health intervention in public schools.
The bill mandates that public schools wishing to participate need to apply for funding, which derives a significant portion from the Opioid Settlement Fund, specifically allocating $4 million annually for the program's administration. The funding is intended to cover the implementation costs, including training of school staff and peer helpers. As a result, if enacted, this legislation could lead to a more standardized approach to mental health support across schools, potentially improving student outcomes in multiple areas, including behavior and academic performance.
House Bill 1399, known as the Peer Helpers PLUS Act, aims to establish a structured program for improving mental health support in Mississippi public schools. This initiative is spearheaded by the Department of Mental Health and seeks to provide counseling and interventions through a multi-tiered approach, which includes the Prevention Awareness for Total Health (PATH) curriculum. The program underscores the importance of building a supportive environment for students by integrating peer-to-peer counseling and educational content that addresses critical issues such as bullying, substance abuse, and academic challenges.
While the bill aims to enhance mental health resources in schools, there may be discussions regarding the voluntary nature of participation for schools, along with the allocation of funds. Some educators and stakeholders could express concerns about the sustainability of funding, the effectiveness of a state-administered program on local issues, and the potential disparity in implementation across various districts. Ultimately, the success of the Act will depend on how well it adapts to the specific needs of individual schools and their communities.