Senate Bill 347 proposes significant changes to the funding and structure of mental health services in Wisconsin schools. The bill repeals the existing grant program and introduces a new categorical aid system for comprehensive school mental health services, which will be administered by the Department of Public Instruction (DPI). Starting in the 2025-26 school year, DPI will reimburse school boards and independent charter schools for costs related to mental health services provided during both in-school and out-of-school times. The reimbursement will be capped at the greater of $100,000 or $100 per pupil enrolled in the previous school year, with provisions for proration if funding is insufficient.

The bill also outlines specific eligible expenditures for reimbursement, including evidence-based mental health strategies, training programs, collaboration with community mental health providers, and telehealth services. However, it excludes costs related to direct treatment services, non-mental health training, and indirect operational expenses. To support these changes, the bill increases the appropriation for the Department of Public Instruction by $83,888,000 for both the 2025-26 and 2026-27 fiscal years. The new aid program aims to enhance mental health support for students and address the growing need for such services in schools.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 20.255(2)(dt)(title), 20.255, 115.367