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Bill to Boost Mental Health Staffing in High-Need Schools.

This legislation establishes a grant program authorizing $5 billion for Fiscal Year 2025 to significantly increase the number of school-based mental health providers (counselors, psychologists, social workers) in high-need elementary and secondary schools. The goal is to improve student support by helping local districts meet recommended professional-to-student ratios, such as one counselor for every 250 students. This aims to address the high prevalence of mental health issues among youth and reduce school dropout rates.
Key points
Funding: Authorizes $5 billion for FY 2025 to hire or contract school counselors, psychologists, and social workers.
Targeted Support: Funds are prioritized for high-need schools, particularly those serving large populations of low-income students.
Ratio Goals: Requires districts to work towards meeting professional standards, including a maximum ratio of 1 school counselor per 250 students.
Citizen Impact: Students gain better and faster access to crucial mental health and social support services directly within their schools.
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Expired
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Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_4407
Sponsor: Sen. Merkley, Jeff [D-OR]
Process start date: 2024-05-23
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Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Elementary and Secondary School Counseling Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 118_S_4407.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2024-05-23.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Funding: Authorizes $5 billion for FY 2025 to hire or contract school counselors, psychologists, and social workers.
  • Targeted Support: Funds are prioritized for high-need schools, particularly those serving large populations of low-income students.
  • Ratio Goals: Requires districts to work towards meeting professional standards, including a maximum ratio of 1 school counselor per 250 students.
  • Citizen Impact: Students gain better and faster access to crucial mental health and social support services directly within their schools.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Sen. Merkley, Jeff [D-OR].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Introduced in Senate

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-26.

CATEGORIES

Education Health