The bill establishes the Student Mental Health Task Force in New Jersey, aimed at addressing the mental health needs of students, including issues such as depression, anxiety, and trauma. The task force will consist of 17 members, including various state commissioners and public members with expertise in mental health and education. Its responsibilities include examining available resources for mental health support in schools, surveying treatment services, and developing recommendations to ensure students have access to necessary mental health care programs. The task force will also consult with parents and educators to gather insights on the mental health challenges faced by students.
Additionally, the task force is tasked with studying the identification of students experiencing mental health difficulties, evaluating counseling programs, and assessing the relationship between student mental health and school safety. It will explore funding needs for public schools to enhance mental health services and examine successful programs from other states. A final report detailing the findings and recommendations will be submitted to the Governor and Legislature within one year of the task force's organization, and the task force will dissolve 30 days after the report is issued.