Senate Bill No. SLS 24RS-148 mandates that all city, parish, or local public school boards and postsecondary education institutions in Louisiana provide mental health counseling services for student athletes. Specifically, each high school must employ or contract with at least one licensed mental health counselor, while colleges must ensure similar provisions for their athletes. The mental health counselors are required to deliver preventive and manageable counseling services aimed at addressing the psychological and emotional well-being of student athletes. They must be available upon request from various stakeholders, including parents, teachers, and coaches.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) and the Board of Regents will be responsible for establishing guidelines for these mental health services and will report annually to the legislature on the implementation and effectiveness of the program. The legislation emphasizes the importance of mental health support for student athletes, ensuring that they have access to necessary resources to address any mental health concerns. The bill will take effect upon the governor's signature or after the designated time for gubernatorial action.