Senate Bill 350 aims to enhance the support for mental health and pupil wellness in Wisconsin schools by expanding the eligibility for state categorical aid. The bill proposes to repeal several existing provisions related to the reimbursement structure for local education agencies (LEAs) that employ pupil services professionals, such as school counselors, social workers, psychologists, and nurses. It eliminates the requirement that LEAs must increase their spending on social workers to qualify for aid, allowing any LEA that incurs expenses for pupil services professionals to receive reimbursement. Additionally, the bill removes the two-tier reimbursement structure, simplifying the process for accessing funds.

The bill also includes amendments to the relevant statutes, changing the title of the aid program to "Mental health and pupil wellness aid" and increasing the appropriations for the program by $16.5 million for the fiscal year 2025-26 and $18 million for 2026-27. These changes are intended to provide more comprehensive support for mental health services in schools, ensuring that a broader range of pupil services professionals can be funded through state aid. The act will take effect following its publication or the publication of the 2025 biennial budget act, whichever is later.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 20.255(2)(da), 20.255, 115.364(title), 115.364, 115.364(2)(b)2, 118.40(2r)(e)2p.a, 118.40