This bill establishes specific requirements for school counselors and school counseling programs at higher education institutions in New Jersey, while also creating the position of State School Counselor Liaison within the Department of Education (DOE). It defines a school counselor as an individual holding a New Jersey standard educational services certificate with a school counselor endorsement and outlines their role, which includes recognizing mental health needs, delivering comprehensive counseling programs, and collaborating with various stakeholders to support students' academic, career, social, and emotional development.

Additionally, the bill mandates that the State Board of Education set professional development requirements for school counselors, focusing on areas such as mental health awareness, crisis intervention, and social-emotional learning. It also requires that school counseling programs at accredited colleges incorporate the American School Counselor Association's national model and training in social-emotional learning and career planning. The appointed State School Counselor Liaison will facilitate best practices in school counseling, promote professional development, and report annually to the Governor and Legislature on the activities and recommendations related to school counseling services.