Senate Bill 348 amends Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49, by introducing a new section that mandates the funding of school counselors in local education agencies (LEAs) and public charter schools. Specifically, the bill stipulates that the Tennessee Investment in Student Achievement (TISA) program will fund one full-time licensed professional school counselor for every 250 students in an LEA, or one full-time position for each LEA and public charter school, whichever is greater. Additionally, it requires that each LEA and public charter school employ a licensed professional school counselor for each position funded under this provision.

The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2023, and will apply to the 2023-2024 school year and subsequent years. This legislation aims to enhance the availability of professional counseling services in schools, thereby supporting the mental health and academic success of students.