This bill establishes a grant program through the Commissioner of Education to support school districts in implementing substance abuse prevention programs specifically for eighth grade students. The program is designed to include two main components: a faculty and parent education component aimed at raising awareness and providing knowledge about substance abuse issues, and a student education component that follows a four-phase approach. The phases involve personal testimonies from individuals affected by substance abuse, educational presentations, discussions with minimum custody offenders about the consequences of drug and alcohol use, and interactions with positive role models, including celebrities, to promote healthy choices.

To participate in the grant program, school districts must submit an application certifying that their budget includes funding for the substance abuse prevention program, which can come from various sources such as district funds, private donations, or federal funds. The bill also includes a provision ensuring that no student is compelled to participate in the program if their parent or guardian provides a signed statement indicating that participation conflicts with the student's conscience or sincerely held moral or religious beliefs. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.