House Bill No. 352 aims to enhance behavioral health services for public school students in Louisiana by amending existing laws and introducing new provisions. The bill mandates that each public school governing authority adopt a policy to implement these services, which must be made publicly available on their websites and included in student handbooks. It specifies that behavioral health services are to be provided during school hours, including instructional time, if deemed medically necessary, and allows for services to be conducted outside of the classroom when required. Additionally, the bill establishes guidelines for virtual supervision of behavioral health providers, ensuring that only the student receiving services is recorded during such sessions.

Furthermore, the bill introduces the requirement for a "school-based service delivery review meeting" to be held within a specified timeframe after a behavioral health treatment plan is submitted. This meeting aims to facilitate communication and coordination between school personnel and behavioral health providers regarding the delivery of services. The bill also emphasizes that behavioral health providers must comply with existing educational plans and outlines the responsibilities of these providers while on school premises. Overall, the legislation seeks to ensure that students have access to necessary behavioral health services without unnecessary barriers, while also maintaining a structured approach to their implementation within the school environment.

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