The bill aims to enhance the support and resources available to school districts and public schools in Washington for addressing students' behavioral health needs. It mandates the establishment of regional school safety centers within each educational service district, which will collaborate with the state school safety center to form a statewide network focused on school safety. These centers are tasked with providing a range of services, including behavioral health coordination, school-based threat assessment training, and crisis support, to ensure that schools can effectively respond to emotional and behavioral distress among students.

Additionally, the bill introduces a technical assistance and training network designed to provide comprehensive support across the behavioral health continuum. This network will involve collaboration among various stakeholders, including the department of health and behavioral health professionals, to deliver training, resources, and administrative support. Key provisions include conducting needs assessments, offering professional development, and facilitating partnerships with community organizations to enhance the behavioral health initiatives within schools. The bill emphasizes the importance of culturally responsive practices and aims to create a sustainable framework for addressing the mental health needs of students.

Statutes affected:
Substitute Bill: 28A.310.510