HB 3507
Relating to requiring the counties particpating in the QMHP Pilot Program to have at least one qualified mental health professional in each public school in that county.
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed House of Delegates
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill aims to establish a pilot program in West Virginia requiring participating counties to have at least one qualified mental health professional (QMHP) in each of their public schools. It defines what constitutes a QMHP, specifically classifying school counselors as such, and outlines the program's structure and reporting requirements. The bill also mandates training for school counselors to enhance their skills in areas like career counseling and mental health support.
Key provisions
- Designates school counselors as Qualified Mental Health Professionals (QMHPs).
- Requires participating counties (selected by LOCEA) to have at least one QMHP in each public school.
- Defines a ‘Qualified Mental Health Professional’ as someone registered by the West Virginia Board of Examiners in Counseling.
- Establishes a two-year pilot program for the QMHP initiative.
- Mandates specific training for school counselors on topics like career counseling, mental health, and academic support.
- Allows counties to contract with federal and state agencies for billing purposes.
- Provides for LOCEA to expand the pilot program after two years based on program results.
- States that counties may exceed the provisions of the bill and that the legislature does not need to provide specific funding.
Who is affected
- West Virginia Counties
- Public School Students
- School Counselors
- School Administrators
- Parents
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