Substitute House Bill No. 7158 mandates that health care providers develop and manage safety plans for minor patients, which are collaborative documents detailing coping strategies and support networks for potential mental health crises. These safety plans must be reviewed with the minor and securely transmitted to the minor's school nurse or nurse practitioner, contingent upon obtaining written consent from the minor's parent or legally authorized representative, or from the minor themselves if they are 16 years or older. The bill also requires compliance with HIPAA regulations and mandates that the school nurse or nurse practitioner provide their contact information to the health care provider. Additionally, for minors receiving inpatient behavioral health care for over 14 consecutive days, a discharge plan must be developed in consultation with the minor, their parent or representative, and a school representative, provided consent is obtained.

The bill introduces new consent provisions for minors seeking behavioral health services, requiring that an authorized representative or the minor themselves (if at least 16 years old) provide consent for inpatient services. It also mandates that health care providers inform minors about referrals to other providers upon discharge, contingent on the same consent. Furthermore, the bill tasks the State Department of Education commissioner, in collaboration with the public health commissioner, to compile a list of hospitals and health care providers offering inpatient behavioral health services, which will be shared with school nurses and nurse practitioners. The effective date for the bill is July 1, 2025, with specific provisions regarding the list taking effect upon passage. The estimated annual cost associated with the bill is $44,900 to the General Fund, primarily for the Department of Education.