H.R. 8979: Elementary and Secondary School Counseling Act

This bill, known as the Elementary and Secondary School Counseling Act, aims to improve the availability of mental health services in public elementary and secondary schools, particularly in high-need areas. Here are the key components of the bill:

1. Purpose and Goals

The primary goal of the bill is to effectively staff high-need public schools with school-based mental health services providers. This includes school counselors, psychologists, social workers, and community mental health professionals. The bill is based on findings that a significant number of adolescents experience mental health issues, and that accessible mental health services in schools can help students seek help more readily.

2. Funding and Grants

The bill proposes to allocate federal funds to support school-based mental health services. This includes:

• Grants to States: States can apply for grants to fund local educational agencies (LEAs) that serve high-need schools. This funding is intended to help recruit and retain mental health service providers in these schools.
• Subgrants to Local Educational Agencies: States using the received grants will award subgrants to LEAs, enhancing access to mental health services.
• Matching Funds: States are required to contribute matching funds amounting to 20% of the grant received.

3. Criteria for High-Need Schools

The bill defines "high-need schools" as those that have a greater need for mental health services, which likely includes schools serving lower-income populations or schools with higher rates of student mental health issues. The bill emphasizes the importance of meeting recommended counselor-to-student ratios, which are:

• 250 students per school counselor
• 500 students per school psychologist
• 250 students per school social worker

4. Reporting and Evaluation

Local educational agencies that receive subgrants must provide annual reports on how the funds are being utilized. These reports should detail the number of mental health providers, the activities funded, and the current student-to-provider ratios. States are also required to submit annual reports to the Secretary of Education assessing progress toward achieving the recommended ratios.

5. Appropriations

The bill authorizes a total of $5 billion in federal funds for the fiscal year 2027 to support its initiatives, with provisions for additional funding in subsequent years as necessary.

6. Duration and Continuation

Grants awarded under this bill will be for a five-year period, with the potential for renewal if progress is demonstrated in meeting stipulated goals regarding mental health staffing.

7. Definitions

The bill provides definitions for key terms including "school-based mental health services provider," "high-need school," and others that are relevant to its implementation.

Relevant Companies

• PFE (Pfizer Inc.): As a company involved in health services and products, Pfizer may see increased demand for mental health treatment options as more schools enhance their mental health support services.
• CI (Cigna Corporation): Being a major health insurance provider, Cigna could experience impacts regarding mental health coverage and services as schools seek partnerships for mental health staffing.