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Bill

Bill

HB 38

Public schools; mental health awareness training and instruction, requirements.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Bonita Anthony and 14 co-sponsors

Virginia public schools must implement mental health awareness training and instruction in curricula with required teacher professional development.

Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0047)
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Bill Summary · HB 38

Legislative bill overview

HB 38 requires Virginia public schools to implement mental health awareness training and instruction as part of their curriculum. The bill mandates that students receive education about mental health conditions, warning signs, and resources, with specific requirements for teacher training on delivering this content effectively.

Why is this important

Mental health issues among school-age children have risen significantly, and early awareness and intervention can reduce stigma and improve outcomes. Schools are natural settings to reach young people during critical developmental years, potentially connecting struggling students with needed support services.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs and burden: The fiscal impact statement suggests funding requirements for teacher training and curriculum development that may strain school budgets already facing resource constraints
  • Curriculum content specificity: Disagreement may arise over what mental health topics should be included, at what grade levels, and who decides content standards
  • Teacher qualifications: Questions about whether regular classroom teachers need specialized mental health training or if trained counselors/specialists should lead instruction, and the associated professional development costs

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

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