ATLANTA – State Representatives Sandra Scott (D-Rex), Viola Davis (D-Stone Mountain) and Kim Schofield (D-Atlanta) recently introduced House Bill 24, the School Behavioral Health Support Act, which seeks to expand mental health services in Georgia’s K-12 schools. This bill aims to establish a school-linked behavioral health grant program to provide early intervention and treatment for students struggling with mental health or substance use disorders.
“Mental health is just as important as physical health, and our students deserve access to the resources they need to succeed in and out of the classroom,” said Rep. Scott. “By establishing this grant program, we are ensuring that children facing behavioral health challenges get the support they need early on. This bill underscores Georgia’s commitment to addressing the growing mental health crisis among youth and ensuring every student has access to essential care.”
The proposed legislation seeks to bridge the gap between schools and mental health services by funding partnerships with licensed healthcare providers, community service boards and mental health centers. It allows for direct intervention, telehealth services, staff development and other critical support measures.
“We have a responsibility to provide students with the tools to manage their mental well-being,” said Rep. Davis. “This legislation will help create strong partnerships between schools and behavioral health providers, ensuring that students receive care from licensed healthcare professionals. By expanding access to qualified providers, we can make mental health services more accessible while reducing the stigma around seeking treatment.”
“Our schools are often the first place where mental health concerns are identified, yet they lack the resources to properly address them,” said Rep. Schofield. “The School Behavioral Health Support Act will give educators and families the support they need to help students thrive.”
If passed, the School Behavioral Health Support Act would provide funding for diagnostic services, treatment, family support, telehealth services and school staff development.
To read the full text of HB 24, please click here.
Representative Sandra Scott represents the citizens of District 76, which includes a portion of Clayton County. She was elected to the House of Representatives in 2010 and currently serves on the Banks & Banking, Defense & Veterans Affairs, Human Relations & Aging, Insurance and Reapportionment and Redistricting committees.
Representative Viola Davis represents the citizens of District 87, which includes a portion of DeKalb County. She was elected to the House of Representatives in 2018 and currently serves on the Defense & Veterans Affairs, Health, Insurance, Natural Resources & Environment and Urban Affairs committees.
Representative Kim Schofield represents the citizens of District 63, which includes a portion of Fulton County. She was elected to the House of Representatives in 2017 and currently serves as the Secretary of the Urban Affairs Committee. She also serves on the Creative Arts & Entertainment, Health, Industry and Labor and Small Business Development committees.
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