The proposed bill, titled the "Marley's Teacher Mental Health Act," mandates that district school boards in Florida provide classroom teachers with access to mental health services. This includes services from qualified mental health professionals such as counselors, psychiatrists, or clinical psychologists, specifically trained to address the unique needs of teachers. The bill aims to mitigate job-related stress and depression among educators by ensuring they have the necessary support.
Additionally, the bill stipulates that school boards must offer a 35-percent discount on copayments for these mental health services and may choose to provide them at no cost to teachers. The effective date for this legislation is set for July 1, 2025.