The proposed bill, General Assembly Proposed Bill No. 19, aims to address the funding needs for school-based mental health services in certain rural areas, specifically in the northwest part of the state. It proposes to appropriate a sum of ____ dollars from the General Fund to the Department of Education for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2027. This funding is intended to offset the decreases in federal funding that have impacted these essential mental health services in schools.

The bill does not include any deletions from current law but introduces new legal language to ensure the allocation of funds specifically for mental health services in rural schools. The intent is to enhance support for students in these areas, recognizing the critical need for mental health resources in light of reduced federal assistance.