This bill establishes comprehensive mental health services and awareness initiatives at public institutions of higher education in Iowa. It defines key terms such as "public institution of higher education," "mental health condition," and "telehealth," and mandates institutions to implement various functions aimed at raising mental health awareness. These functions include developing annual orientation sessions, integrating mental health curricula into existing courses, providing information on mental health resources, and implementing online screening tools for students. Additionally, the bill requires institutions to provide contact information for mental health resources on student identification cards and to distribute mental health information during high-stress periods.

Furthermore, the bill mandates the creation of a mental health technical assistance center by the Department of Health and Human Services, which will develop standardized policies for medical leave related to mental health, support institutions in reviewing their policies, and establish best practices for partnerships with local mental health agencies. Institutions are also required to develop peer support programs and establish strategic partnerships with local mental health service providers to enhance campus mental wellness. The bill emphasizes the importance of training for resident assistants and campus security officers in mental health first aid and requires institutions to evaluate the effectiveness of their mental health programs and initiatives.