The bill, H. 4133, is a concurrent resolution expressing the support of the South Carolina General Assembly for the Crisis Recovery Network coordinated by the Southern Regional Education Board. It emphasizes the importance of long-term recovery efforts following natural disasters, school shootings, and public emergencies, highlighting that states, districts, and postsecondary institutions often lack the capacity to provide sustained support during the recovery phase. The resolution acknowledges the particular challenges faced by rural districts, which typically have fewer counselors and limited access to additional resources, and stresses the need for external support to aid the entire school community, including students, teachers, and counselors.
The resolution calls for the State of South Carolina to actively participate in the Crisis Recovery Network, recognizing it as a trusted resource for educational institutions in times of crisis. It underscores the necessity of specialized training for counselors to ensure they can provide appropriate psychological support and highlights research indicating that adequate post-crisis support can lead to better academic outcomes and community contributions from students. Overall, the resolution aims to mobilize support for a structured recovery process that addresses the emotional and psychological needs of affected communities.