This bill amends and reenacts several provisions of Louisiana's R.S. 17:173, which pertains to behavioral health services for public school students. Key changes include the requirement for public school governing authorities to adopt and publicly post policies regarding the implementation of these services, ensuring that such policies do not create barriers for providers. The bill mandates that behavioral health services be allowed during school hours, provided that necessary evaluations and treatment plans are presented by a student's parent or guardian. It also specifies that behavioral health services can be delivered both in physical classrooms and outside of them, as long as they are medically necessary.

Additionally, the bill introduces new definitions and procedures for the coordination of behavioral health services within schools. It establishes a "school-based service delivery review meeting" to facilitate communication between school personnel and behavioral health providers, ensuring that the delivery of services aligns with the educational needs of the student. The bill also clarifies that a parent or legal guardian is the only individual permitted to file a dispute resolution claim regarding these services, and it emphasizes that existing student plans, such as Individualized Education Plans, take precedence over behavioral health treatment plans in case of conflicts.

Statutes affected:
HB352 Original: 17:173(A)(2)
HB352 Engrossed: 17:173(A)(2)
HB352 Reengrossed: 17:173(A)(2)
HB352 Enrolled: 17:173(A)(2)
HB352 Act 944: 17:173(A)(2)