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Bill

HB 355

Public school students in grades six through 12; annual mental health screening.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Bonita Anthony and 11 co-sponsors

Virginia would mandate annual mental health screenings for grades 6-12 students to identify and support those with emerging mental health needs.

Approved by Governor-Chapter 593 (effective 7/1/2026)
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Bill Summary · HB 355

Legislative bill overview

HB 355 would require Virginia public schools to conduct annual mental health screenings for all students in grades 6-12. The bill establishes a statewide framework for identifying students who may need mental health support and connecting them with appropriate resources or referrals.

Why is this important

Early identification of mental health concerns can improve student outcomes, reduce crisis situations, and help address the growing youth mental health crisis. However, implementation requires significant resources, training, and coordination between schools and mental health providers—infrastructure that varies widely across Virginia's districts.

Potential points of contention

  • Parental consent and notification requirements – Whether parents must opt-in or opt-out, and how quickly they're informed of screening results, remains a key concern for some stakeholders
  • School capacity and funding – Districts may lack sufficient counselors, psychologists, or mental health professionals to conduct screenings and provide follow-up care, particularly in rural areas
  • Privacy and data protection – Questions about how mental health information is stored, who accesses it, and whether it could affect college admissions, special education placement, or law enforcement involvement
  • Screening tool selection – Disagreement over which assessment tools are appropriate, culturally sensitive, and evidence-based for diverse student populations

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

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