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Bill

HB 1547

Establishing a statewide network for student mental and behavioral health.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Liz Berry and 14 co-sponsors

Washington bill creates statewide student mental health network to coordinate services and improve access to behavioral health support in K-12 schools.

First reading, referred to Education.
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Bill Summary · HB 1547

Legislative bill overview

HB 1547 establishes a statewide network designed to coordinate and improve mental and behavioral health services for students across Washington. The bill creates infrastructure for schools and mental health providers to collaborate in delivering evidence-based interventions and support to K-12 students.

Why is this important

Student mental health has become a critical public health concern, with increased rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidality among young people. By creating a coordinated statewide network, the bill aims to reduce fragmentation in services, ensure equitable access across rural and urban areas, and potentially decrease barriers to students receiving timely mental health support within or through school systems.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding mechanisms: The bill's viability depends on adequate state funding; unclear whether new revenue is included or if existing budgets must be redirected
  • School role boundaries: Questions about how much responsibility schools should bear for mental health treatment versus traditional medical/therapeutic roles, and liability implications
  • Privacy and data sharing: Concerns about how student mental health information is collected, stored, and shared across the network while maintaining FERPA and HIPAA protections
  • Implementation capacity: Rural and under-resourced districts may struggle with participation if the network requires significant staffing or infrastructure changes

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

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