The bill, S.B. No. 649, amends the Education Code to enhance school safety and establish a new mental and behavioral health allotment under the Foundation School Program. It modifies Section 48.115 by specifying that funds allocated for school safety must be used for various security measures, including infrastructure improvements, security personnel, and emergency response training. Notably, the bill prohibits the use of these funds for mental and behavioral health services. Additionally, it introduces a new Section 48.117, which provides for an annual allotment dedicated to mental and behavioral health services for students at risk of dropping out of school. This allotment is calculated based on a base amount plus a per-student rate, and the funds must be used to develop comprehensive mental health systems within schools.

The new mental and behavioral health allotment aims to support students by providing necessary services and enhancing school environments. It outlines specific uses for the funds, including hiring qualified personnel, training staff, and collaborating with local community programs. The bill also mandates that school districts report on the outcomes and expenditures related to these funds, ensuring transparency and accountability. The provisions of this section will expire on September 1, 2034, and the act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 48.115 (Education Code 48)