This bill establishes the Task Force on Student Mental Health, which aims to examine and address mental health issues among public school students, including conditions such as depression, anxiety, and trauma. The task force will consist of 16 members, including the Commissioner of Education, the Director of the Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services, and various public members appointed by legislative leaders and the Governor. These members will include educators and parents, all of whom are currently involved in public education in New Jersey.

The task force is tasked with studying the identification of students facing mental health challenges, evaluating existing counseling programs, and exploring the relationship between student mental health and school safety. Additionally, it will assess funding needs for mental health programs and examine successful initiatives from other states. The task force is required to submit a final report of its findings and recommendations to the Governor and the Legislature within one year of its formation, after which it will dissolve 30 days following the report's issuance.