The bill establishes a new section, 394.4575, in the Florida Statutes, which mandates the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability (OPPAGA) to evaluate school district compliance with existing mental health service requirements and the effectiveness of mental health programs for students. The initial evaluation is due by December 31, 2025, and must assess school district compliance with specific statutes, treatment outcomes, system capacity, and the integration of mental health assistance programs into coordinated care systems. A final evaluation is required by December 1, 2026, which will include similar assessments and recommendations for enhancing the effectiveness of these programs.

Additionally, the bill requires coordination between the Department of Education, school district mental health coordinators, and OPPAGA to provide necessary data and reports for the evaluations. This includes information on referrals to mental health services and performance metrics. The act aims to ensure that mental health services in schools are effectively evaluated and improved, thereby enhancing the support provided to students in need of mental health assistance. The bill will take effect upon becoming law.

Statutes affected:
H 969 Filed: 1001.212, 1006.041, 1012.584
H 969 c1: 1001.212, 1006.041, 1012.584