Permits certain mental health professionals working in school districts to refer or help facilitate referral of students to professional counselors.
Impact
The act particularly supplements existing regulations under Title 18A of the New Jersey Statutes concerning public education. If enacted, it would empower school mental health professionals to act as a bridge to external counseling services, which could help students who may otherwise face barriers in accessing necessary mental health support. Importantly, the bill stipulates that neither the school district nor the individual referring the students will bear the costs associated with the assessments or services provided by external counselors, potentially shifting the financial responsibility to parents or guardians when necessary.
Summary
Assembly Bill A1657 introduces provisions that permit certain mental health professionals in school districts, including student assistance coordinators, school counselors, and school psychologists, to refer students to licensed professional counselors for mental health assessments and services. The bill aims to enhance the mental health support available to students within the school environment, acknowledging the increasing recognition of mental health issues among youth and the role educational institutions play in addressing them. By facilitating these referrals, schools can ensure that students receive appropriate therapeutic care as needed.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding A1657 appears largely positive, with many stakeholders recognizing the need for improved mental health resources in schools. Supporters argue that the bill will play a crucial role in addressing the mental health crisis among students and promote better educational outcomes. However, there may be concerns regarding the execution of these referrals and the financial implications for families, which could introduce debates regarding equitable access to mental health services.
Contention
While proponents of A1657 advocate for increased mental health support, some potential points of contention may arise regarding the nature of referrals and the scope of professional discretion. There is also a need for clear guidelines to prevent any conflicts of interest, as the bill prohibits referrals if there is a significant beneficial interest between the referring professional and the counselor. This provision aims to maintain ethical standards but may require further discussion among legislators and mental health professionals to ensure comprehensive implementation.
Same As
Permits certain mental health professionals working in school districts to refer or help facilitate referral of students to private professional counselors.
Carry Over
Permits certain mental health professionals working in school districts to refer or help facilitate referral of students to private professional counselors.
Carry Over
Permits certain mental health professionals working in school districts to refer or help facilitate referral of students to private professional counselors.
Permits certain mental health professionals working in school districts to refer or help facilitate referral of students to private professional counselors.
Permits certain mental health professionals working in school districts to refer or help facilitate referral of students to private professional counselors.
Permits certain mental health professionals working in school districts to refer or help facilitate referral of students to private professional counselors.
Establishes certain program requirements for school counselor certification; outlines role and duties of school counselor; requires professional development for school counselors; establishes position of School Counselor Liaison in DOE.
Requires board of education to directly employ certain professionals; permits board of education to contract for certain personnel; permits use of virtual or remote instruction for public school students in certain circumstances.
Establishes certain program requirements for school counselor certification; outlines role and duties of school counselor; requires professional development for school counselors; establishes position of School Counselor Liaison in DOE.
Requires public school students with concussion to be evaluated by licensed health care professionals before return to school; requires school districts to provide restrictions or limitations to student as needed.
Requires public school students with concussion to be evaluated by licensed health care professionals before return to school; requires school districts to provide restrictions or limitations to student as needed.
Makes it an unfair trade practice to automatically bill a consumer, enter into automatic renewal contracts with a consumer, or bill a consumer for a third party without express written authorization
Provides for the definition of major teaching hospital for the purposes of hospital prospective reimbursement methodology. (8/15/10) (RE NO IMPACT See Note)