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 provided to students. The initial evaluation is due by December 31, 2025, and must assess 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 ensure the provision of necessary data and reports for the evaluations. This includes information on referrals to mental health services and performance metrics. The act aims to improve the reporting and effectiveness of mental health services in schools, ultimately enhancing student mental health outcomes. 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