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Bill

HB 352

STUDENTS: Provides relative to behavioral health services for public school students (EN SEE FISC NOTE LF EX)

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Roy Adams and 16 co-sponsors

Louisiana bill proposes expanding behavioral health services in public schools to improve student access to mental health support and early intervention.

Effective date: 08/01/2026.
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Bill Summary · HB 352

Legislative bill overview

HB 352 addresses the provision of behavioral health services within Louisiana's public school system. The bill aims to expand or clarify access to mental health and counseling support for students, though the specific mechanisms and funding details are not detailed in the title.

Why is this important

Student mental health has become a critical concern, with rising rates of anxiety, depression, and suicide among school-age populations. Providing behavioral health services in schools improves accessibility to care, particularly for underserved populations, and can address issues before they escalate.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding source and costs: Whether the state will fully fund these services or shift costs to school districts already facing budget constraints
  • Scope of services: Debate over what constitutes "behavioral health services" (counseling, crisis intervention, psychiatric medication management, etc.) and whether schools are appropriate venues
  • Privacy and parental involvement: Questions about student confidentiality, parental notification requirements, and who has access to mental health records
  • Implementation gaps: Whether sufficient trained behavioral health professionals exist to staff these services, or if quality will be compromised

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

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