H.B. No. 2598 amends various sections of the Education and Occupations Codes in Texas to update the terminology and licensing requirements for school psychologists. The bill replaces the term "licensed specialist in school psychology" with "school psychologist" throughout the relevant legal texts. This change is reflected in multiple sections, including the definitions of mental health professionals and the composition of task forces related to mental health services in schools. The amendments also clarify that a school psychologist is defined as a person who holds a license to practice psychology under Section 501.260.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities and qualifications for members of task forces and other entities involved in mental health services, ensuring that at least one member must practice as a school psychologist. The changes aim to streamline the language and improve clarity regarding the roles and qualifications of mental health professionals in educational settings. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 38.303, Occupations Code 501.002, Occupations Code 501.260 (Education Code 38, Occupations Code 501)
House Committee Report: Education Code 38.303, Occupations Code 501.002, Occupations Code 501.260 (Education Code 38, Occupations Code 501)
Engrossed: Education Code 38.303, Education Code 61.601, Education Code 502.002, Government Code 411.12502, Occupations Code 501.002, Occupations Code 501.260 (Government Code 411, Education Code 61, Education Code 38, Education Code 502, Occupations Code 501)
Senate Committee Report: Education Code 38.303, Education Code 61.601, Education Code 502.002, Government Code 411.12502, Occupations Code 501.002, Occupations Code 501.260 (Government Code 411, Education Code 61, Education Code 38, Education Code 502, Occupations Code 501)
Enrolled: Education Code 38.303, Education Code 61.601, Education Code 502.002, Government Code 411.12502, Occupations Code 501.002, Occupations Code 501.260 (Government Code 411, Education Code 61, Education Code 38, Education Code 502, Occupations Code 501)