The proposed bill, known as the Student Wellness Act, seeks to enact section 3321.044 of the Revised Code, allowing school districts in Ohio to count mental health days as excused absences. Under this new provision, school district boards of education may adopt policies that define what constitutes a mental health day, set a limit on the number of such days a student can take each school year, and establish a method for determining whether the student will receive or be referred to school health or support services.

This legislation aims to promote student wellness by recognizing the importance of mental health in the educational environment. By formally allowing mental health days to be counted as excused absences, the bill seeks to reduce stigma around mental health issues and encourage students to prioritize their mental well-being.