May 10, 2023 - WASHINGTON – Representative Josh Harder (CA-9) has introduced a bill to allow more mental health practitioners to work in schools across Northern California. Right now, an omission in the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 prevents highly trained mental health practitioners like Marriage Family Therapists (MFTs), Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), and Clinical Psychologists from working in public schools. Rep. Harder’s Improving Mental Health in Schools Act will amend the existing law to allow these critical professionals to work in schools directly with kids and families as specialized instructional support personnel.

According to a 2021 survey of California students from the American Civil Liberties Union:

• 63% of students said they'd had an emotional meltdown in the past year.
• 43% of students reported a panic or anxiety attack.
• 22% of students said they'd missed three or more days of school due to mental health.
• 19% of students reported suicidal thoughts.

“Ask any parent and they’ll tell you – mental health issues are plaguing our kids right now. It’s scary to see how many kids and teens are suffering from depression or anxiety. As a parent myself, I refuse to let this be the new normal,”  said Rep. Harder. “Early intervention is key when it comes to youth mental health. That’s why I just introduced a bill to get our kids the professional help they need right in their schools.”

Read the full text of the bill here.
Source: Congressman Josh Harder