88R5794 MM-D
By: Plesa H.B. No. 3488
A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT
relating to creating a mental health allotment under the Foundation
School Program.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
SECTION 1. Subchapter C, Chapter 48, Education Code, is
amended by adding Section 48.117 to read as follows:
Sec. 48.117. MENTAL HEALTH ALLOTMENT. (a) For each student
in average daily attendance, a school district is entitled to an
annual allotment equal to the basic allotment multiplied by 0.008.
(b) At least 85 percent of the funds allocated under this
section must be used to establish and maintain appropriate mental
health supports for students in the district, including to pay
costs associated with:
(1) hiring and providing compensation for counselors,
social workers, and staff dedicated to student mental health;
(2) implementing screenings for adverse childhood
experiences and anxiety disorders for students who are eight years
of age, using tools selected by the agency based on guidance from
mental health professionals;
(3) selecting and implementing evidence-based
programs to provide a positive school climate and promote student
skills in dealing with bullying and conflicts, solving problems,
developing healthy peer relationships, and engaging in activities
to prevent suicide and substance use; and
(4) developing:
(A) early intervention services for students in
need of additional support, such as skill groups to deal with grief,
anger, anxiety, or sadness;
(B) treatment programs and services that address
the various mental health needs of students;
(C) student and family support and mental health
resources;
(D) a school culture in which teachers and other
student support staff are trained to recognize the early warning
signs of student mental health issues; and
(E) a mental health referral process to ensure
that all students have equal access to mental health services and
supports.
SECTION 2. This Act takes effect September 1, 2023.