The bill aims to enhance mental health education in Alaska's public school system by mandating the development of guidelines for mental health instruction. It emphasizes the importance of collaboration between the Board of Education and Early Development, the Department of Health, the Department of Family and Community Services, regional tribal health organizations, and representatives from national and state mental health organizations. The bill also amends existing laws to include provisions for parental notification regarding mental health classes, ensuring parents are informed at least two weeks prior to their child participating in such programs.

Additionally, the bill encourages school districts to implement health education programs that encompass mental health alongside other health topics. It establishes a requirement for the state board to create developmentally appropriate guidelines for mental health instruction and mandates a report to the legislature two years after the bill's enactment, detailing the guidelines and the development process. The bill also includes a transition period for the Board of Education to develop these mental health guidelines within two years of the law's effective date.

Statutes affected:
SB0041A, AM SB 41, introduced 01/17/2025: 14.03.016, 14.30.020, 14.30.360