Under a new law, school districts are required to develop and implement a plan to address the mental health needs of students, families, teachers and administrators in the district. The plan must also address the potential need for emergency mental health treatment of students as a result of a crisis within the district or school. This requirement comes as part of a new law called “An Act Relative to the Reduction of Gun Violence.”
Most aspects of the law, at least as they pertain to schools, are subject to appropriation. However, the requirement to have a plan to address the mental health needs of community members is one aspect of the statute that does not rely upon appropriation. If funds are appropriated, the Act permits
school districts to take steps to implement the safe and supportive schools framework. In addition to developing an emergency response plan, the new law encourages schools to work closely with police and fire departments to improve communications and plan for emergencies. The law also encourages suicide awareness and prevention training every three years to all licensed school personnel. The new statute goes into effect at the end of the current school year, and the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education is expected to issue regulations and other guidance during the course of this spring. Stay tuned for further developments in this rapidly changing area of the law. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact you NMP attorney.
