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Bill Summary · HB 260

Bill Summary: HB 260 (2026 Regular Session, Kentucky)

Purpose and intent

HB 260 seeks to establish and regulate the use of nationally certified student support personnel within Kentucky schools. The bill aims to define, credential, and potentially standardize the employment and deployment of personnel who hold nationally recognized certifications intended to support student well-being, behavior, and academic success. The overarching goal appears to be to align Kentucky’s framework for student support with nationally recognized standards and practices.

Key provisions and changes (provisions are described generally due to the bill’s text not being included)

  • Definition and scope of nationally certified student support personnel (NCSSP): The bill would specify which roles qualify as NCSSP (e.g., school counselors, school social workers, behavioral specialists, or other positions with nationally recognized certifications). It may set criteria for eligibility, required certifications, and professional qualifications.
  • Certification and credentials requirements: The measure likely outlines the process by which districts or schools must verify, maintain, and renew the national certifications. This could include timelines, renewals, and documentation standards.
  • Standards of practice and duties: The bill may delineate the duties of NCSSP personnel, including supports related to academics, mental health, behavior management, attendance, and family engagement. It may also reference adherence to ethical guidelines and professional standards.
  • Reporting and accountability: Provisions may require districts to report on the use, placement, and outcomes of NCSSP staff, including alignment with student outcomes or performance metrics. There could be annual reporting to the Department of Education.
  • Funding and resources: There may be language addressing funding implications, such as grant opportunities, state allocations, or use of federal funds to hire or maintain NCSSP positions. The bill could specify whether districts must bear costs or whether funds are made available to support these roles.
  • Implementation timeline: The bill would likely set a schedule for phases-in (e.g., effective date, school year start dates, pilot periods) and any transition provisions for districts currently employing similar roles.
  • Compliance and enforcement: Provisions could establish penalties or corrective actions for noncompliance or non-credentialing by districts or schools, along with processes for waivers or appeals.

Who or what would be affected

  • Local school districts and charter schools: Responsible for employing NCSSP staff, ensuring credentials, and aligning practice with the bill’s standards.
  • Students and families: Potentially receive enhanced access to standardized, nationally certified support services (counseling, mental health supports, behavioral interventions, and related academic supports).
  • Educators and school leaders: Required to collaborate with NCSSP staff; may see changes in staffing models, scheduling, and service delivery methods.
  • State Department of Education: Tasked with administering certification standards, monitoring compliance, and collecting data related to NCSSP implementation.
  • Funding streams: Possible impact on budgeting for personnel costs, and on the allocation of state or federal funds designated for school-based support services.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Status and referrals: The bill was introduced in the House on January 8, 2026, and referred to the Committee on Committees, then to the Committee on Primary and Secondary Education on January 15, 2026.
  • Implementation timeline: If enacted, the bill would specify an effective date and any phased rollout, including potential pilot periods or staggered implementation across districts.
  • Ongoing oversight: Likely includes reporting requirements to the legislature or the Department of Education to assess impact and compliance over time.

Potential impacts and considerations

  • Could promote consistency in the quality and qualifications of student support services across Kentucky schools.
  • May require districts to adjust budgets and staffing to meet certification and service standards.
  • Depends on accompanying funding and implementation guidance to determine feasibility for districts of varying sizes and resources.
  • The balance between credentialing requirements and local flexibility will influence how readily districts adopt NCSSP roles.

Note: The summary reflects typical elements such legislation tends to include. The exact text of HB 260 would provide precise definitions, eligible certifications, duties, funding details, and implementation timelines.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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