Virginia Senate Bill SB1130

Virginia 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/7/25
• Refer: 1/7/25

Caption

School-based mental health teletherapy services; policies and requirements.

Impact

If enacted, SB1130 would significantly influence the legal framework surrounding school-based mental health services. It compels school boards to develop policies that facilitate student participation in teletherapy during school hours, ensuring that these services are treated with the same importance as traditional school counseling. Additionally, the schools must provide appropriate privacy measures and designate suitable locations for therapy sessions, enhancing the infrastructure for mental health support within educational settings.

Summary

Senate Bill 1130 focuses on enhancing the accessibility of mental health teletherapy services for students in Virginia. The bill amends and reenacts current legislation to guide school boards in partnering with community mental health services or recognized telehealth providers. It mandates the development of a model memorandum of understanding (MOU) that outlines service provision parameters to ensure students can access mental health support conveniently, even during school hours. This initiative is part of a broader effort to address the increasing demand for mental health resources and improve student wellness.

Contention

While the bill aims to provide crucial mental health resources to students, there may be points of contention regarding the implementation and funding of these services. Stakeholders may debate the adequacy of training for school staff and the potential strain on school resources to manage teletherapy appointments. Moreover, privacy concerns involving student data and the management of these telehealth services may prompt discussions around regulatory compliance and the responsibilities of schools in safeguarding sensitive information.