Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Texas House Bill HB3026

Caption

Relating to the assignment of certain behavioral health professionals to a public school campus.

Impact

If enacted, HB 3026 will significantly alter the landscape of mental health support in Texas public schools. The bill will require school districts to allocate resources toward hiring qualified behavioral health professionals, which could lead to increased funding and prioritization of mental health services across the state. The stipulated ratio of students to professionals aims to guarantee that students receive adequate attention and support, thereby potentially improving overall student performance and well-being. Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the need for parental consent in counseling sessions unless specific safety concerns arise, maintaining a focus on student privacy and protection.

Summary

House Bill 3026 focuses on the assignment of behavioral health professionals within public schools in Texas. It mandates that school districts with an average daily attendance of 400 or more students employ a behavioral health professional for every 400 students. This bill aims to enhance the mental health resources available to students by ensuring that licensed and trained professionals are accessible on campus to provide counseling and support. The inclusion of behavioral health professionals is intended to address the growing concerns around students' mental health and well-being, reflecting a shift in educational policy toward holistic student support systems.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 3026 is generally supportive among educational stakeholders who recognize the importance of mental health services in schools. Advocates argue that the availability of trained behavioral health professionals can lead to early intervention and support for students facing emotional or psychological challenges. However, there are concerns regarding the funding implications for school districts and whether they can sustain the necessary hires without additional state assistance. This highlights a broader discussion about resource allocation in public education and the balancing of academic and mental health priorities.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB 3026 include the feasibility of maintaining the mandated ratios of behavioral health professionals to students, particularly in smaller or underfunded districts. Critics question whether all districts will be able to comply with the requirements due to limited budgets and personnel. Additionally, while the bill seeks to standardize mental health support, there are concerns about the potential variability in the quality of services provided at different schools, depending on local resources and the effectiveness of behavioral health programs implemented.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1005

Relating to the assignment of public school students enrolled in certain school districts to an uncertified teacher.

TX SB11

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.

TX HB3898

Relating to establishing a pilot program to provide a life skills advisor and establish a life skills circle to assess certain student behavior at public high school campuses in certain counties.

TX HB2891

Relating to the use of glucagon medication on certain public and private school campuses.

TX HB1

Relating to primary and secondary education, including the certification, compensation, and health coverage of certain public school employees, the public school finance system, special education in public schools, the establishment of an education savings account program, measures to support the education of public school students that include certain educational grant programs, reading instruction, and early childhood education, the provision of virtual education, and public school accountability.

TX HB1

TX HB4058

Relating to the use of opioid antagonists on the campuses of public and private schools and institutions of higher education and at or in transit to or from off-campus school events.

TX HB100

Relating to public education and public school finance, including the rights, certification, and compensation of public school educators, contributions by a public school to the Teacher Retirement System of Texas, and an education savings account program for certain children.

TX HB4016

Relating to healthy relationships education in public schools.

TX HB98

Relating to the administration, provision, and Medicaid reimbursement of mental health or behavioral health services provided to certain public school students.

Similar Bills

DE HCR58

Commending Dana Carey Representing The Lake Forest School District For Being Selected As Delaware's Behavioral Health Professional Of The Year For 2023 And Commending Each School District And Charter Network's Behavioral Health Professional Of The Year.

DE HCR145

This Concurrent Resolution Commends The 2024 Delaware Behavioral Health Professional Of The Year, Shannon Gronau, And All Of The District/charter Network Behavioral Health Professionals Of The Year.

CA SB1238

Health facilities.

DE HCR65

This Concurrent Resolution Commends Jaclyn Durant, The 2025 Delaware Behavioral Health Professional Of The Year, And All The District/charter Network Behavioral Health Professionals Of The Year.

CA SB805

Health care coverage: pervasive developmental disorders or autism.

CA AB416

Involuntary commitment.

NJ A5666

Establishes initiatives related to behavioral health care, including increasing reimbursement rates, providing cost-of-living adjustments, establishing grant programs for facility upkeep and provider training, and relaxing clinical supervision requirements.