This bill mandates that public schools, including school districts, charter schools, and renaissance school projects, which employ a school psychologist and provide in-person psychological services to students in grades K-12, must also offer the option for students to attend counseling sessions remotely. The provision allows for virtual or remote counseling unless the school psychologist determines that in-person sessions are more beneficial for the student. Importantly, the bill clarifies that students are not required to attend sessions remotely and can still opt for in-person meetings.

The bill defines a school psychologist as an individual holding a New Jersey standard educational services certificate with a school psychologist endorsement. By ensuring access to remote counseling, the legislation aims to support students who may be unable to attend in-person sessions for various reasons, thereby promoting their emotional and academic well-being. The act is set to take effect immediately and will apply to the first full school year following its enactment.