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HB 2637

Mental Health First Aid Program; DOE, et al., to develop, participation by school staff & students.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Elizabeth Bennett-Parker and 6 co-sponsors

Virginia requires schools to train staff and students in Mental Health First Aid to recognize and respond to mental health crises starting July 2025.

Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0296)
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Bill Summary · HB 2637

Legislative bill overview

HB 2637 requires Virginia's Department of Education to develop and implement a Mental Health First Aid program for school staff and students. The bill mandates that schools provide training to help educators and students recognize and respond to mental health crises and substance use issues before professional help arrives.

Why is this important

Mental health crises among school-aged youth have increased significantly, and staff often lack training to recognize warning signs or intervene appropriately. This program aims to bridge the gap between initial crisis recognition and professional mental health services, potentially preventing escalation of mental health emergencies and improving school safety and student wellbeing.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs and funding: Schools must allocate resources for staff training and curriculum development, raising questions about whether adequate state funding will be provided or if schools must absorb costs from existing budgets.
  • Staff burden and liability concerns: Requiring teachers and staff to identify and respond to mental health crises expands their responsibilities; questions remain about liability protections and whether this diverts focus from core educational duties.
  • Training effectiveness and consistency: Variability in how schools implement and refresh training could create inconsistent quality; critics may question whether one-time training produces lasting behavioral change among diverse school populations.

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

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