The bill enacts R.S. 17:416.23, which mandates that local public school boards in Louisiana adopt a program aimed at addressing the behavioral health of students. By thirty days before the start of the 2024-2025 school year, each school board must implement rules and regulations to assist school personnel in identifying students exhibiting behavioral or emotional challenges that could lead to aggressive behavior, disciplinary actions, or juvenile delinquency. The program requires the designation of a specific employee at each school to identify available mental health support services and facilitate referrals for assessment and treatment, including those provided through the Louisiana Coordinated System of Care.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that after a student's second suspension in a school year, the principal and the designated employee must consult to determine if the behavior is linked to behavioral or emotional challenges. If so, they are required to schedule a conference with the student's parent or guardian to discuss the behavior and potential counseling services. Furthermore, local school boards must report annually to the state Department of Education and relevant legislative committees on the number of students identified with behavioral challenges, those who had conferences scheduled, and those referred for services, with the aim of evaluating the need for behavioral health services statewide.