House Bill No. [insert number] aims to enhance mental health services for students in Louisiana by requiring public schools to offer mental health assessments to students in grades three through twelve at the beginning of each school year. The assessments must be conducted by licensed behavioral health providers and require annual authorization from a parent or legal guardian. Schools are encouraged to schedule these assessments during the first semester of the academic year, and principals have the discretion to determine the timing and location for the assessments.

Additionally, the bill defines "licensed behavioral health provider" and outlines the qualifications necessary for individuals or organizations to conduct these assessments. Public schools are tasked with reporting the number of screenings administered by grade level to the state Department of Education at the end of each school year. Importantly, the assessments will be provided at no cost to local public school boards, ensuring that financial barriers do not impede access to mental health services for students.