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H.R. 5557: Mental Health Services for Students Act of 2025

The Mental Health Services for Students Act of 2025 aims to enhance mental health support for children and adolescents, particularly through school-based programs. Here is a detailed overview of the provisions included in the bill:

Purpose and Overview

The bill directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services, in collaboration with the Secretary of Education, to provide comprehensive mental health services in schools. This is intended to support children coping with various traumatic experiences, including grief, violence, and suicidal thoughts.

Key Provisions

School-Based Mental Health Services

The provision of services must be culturally, linguistically, and developmentally appropriate.
Services are required to be trauma-informed.
Programs should incorporate positive behavioral interventions and supports.

Activities Funded

Grants awarded under this act can be used for:

Implementing school- and community-based mental health programs that:
- Raise awareness about trauma and its effects.
- Train staff to recognize and address mental health issues and risk signs.
- Foster health and development through engaged community support.
Providing technical assistance to community organizations.
Developing partnerships among families, educational institutions, and mental health providers.
Creating reporting mechanisms for violence-related incidents.

Eligibility for Grants

A partnership must include:

A state educational agency and one or more local educational agencies.
At least one community-based mental health provider.

Compliance and Distribution

All entities receiving support must comply with privacy laws regarding patient records. The Secretary will ensure that grants are distributed fairly across different regions, considering both urban and rural areas.

Duration and Evaluation of Grants

Grants will be awarded for a period of five years, with options for renewal. Entities will need to submit annual reports evaluating the effectiveness of their programs based on specific outcome measures established by the Secretary.

Funding Amounts

Each grant can be up to $2 million per year for five years, with a total authorization of $300 million for fiscal years 2027 and 2028 to carry out these initiatives.

Geographical Considerations

The Secretary is tasked with ensuring equitable distribution of funding across various regions and demographics to foster broad access to mental health services for students nationwide.