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HB 567

School resource officers; require to undergo Mental Health First Aid training.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Sam Creekmore

Requires Mississippi school resource officers to complete Mental Health First Aid training to better handle student mental health crises. Bill died in committee.

Died In Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 567

Legislative bill overview

HB 567 would mandate that school resource officers (SROs) in Mississippi complete Mental Health First Aid training. This training certification teaches individuals to recognize and respond to mental health and substance use crises before professional help arrives.

Why is this important

School resource officers are often first responders to student mental health crises, behavioral incidents, and trauma situations. Requiring specialized mental health training could improve how SROs interact with vulnerable students, potentially reducing unnecessary arrests or escalation of situations involving students experiencing mental illness or emotional distress.

Potential points of contention

  • Training costs and implementation: Mandating additional training requires funding for course development, instructor time, and officer hours—expenses that may strain already-tight school district budgets
  • Scope of SRO role: Questions about whether law enforcement should be primary mental health responders versus having dedicated school counselors or mental health professionals handle these situations
  • Training effectiveness: Debate over whether Mental Health First Aid certification alone adequately prepares SROs for complex school-based mental health emergencies versus more comprehensive mental health training

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

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