Assembly Bill 343 aims to enhance the state categorical aid program for pupil mental health and wellness by broadening the scope of eligible expenditures. The bill proposes to repeal several existing provisions related to the reimbursement structure for local education agencies (LEAs) and introduces new language that expands eligibility to include spending on school counselors, school social workers, school psychologists, and school nurses, collectively referred to as pupil services professionals. Additionally, the bill eliminates the previous two-tier reimbursement system and the requirement that LEAs must increase their spending to qualify for aid, allowing any LEA that incurs costs for these professionals to receive reimbursement.

The bill also includes fiscal provisions, increasing the appropriation for mental health and pupil wellness aid by $16.5 million for the 2025-26 fiscal year and $18 million for the 2026-27 fiscal year. This funding is intended to support the expanded eligibility and ensure that more schools can access the necessary resources to employ and retain qualified mental health professionals. The changes are set to take effect following publication, or on the second day after 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