This bill proposes updates to the Arizona Revised Statutes regarding school safety requirements by replacing references to "school counselors" and "school social workers" with "school-based mental health professionals." Specifically, it amends section 15-154 to allow school districts and charter schools to apply for funding to place one or more school-based mental health professionals on campuses, enhancing the support for students' mental health needs. The bill also introduces a new definition for "school-based mental health professional," which includes various licensed professionals such as school counselors, social workers, psychologists, and licensed behavioral health providers.

Additionally, the bill modifies the requirements for program proposals submitted by school districts or charter schools. It mandates that these proposals include a plan for implementing a school-based mental health program, detailing the relationship between each school-based mental health professional and local community resources, as well as methods for evaluating the effectiveness of the services provided. The bill aims to streamline the language and focus on mental health support, ensuring that the programs are tailored to meet the evolving needs of students in educational environments.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-154