SB51 Summary

• Requires each local board of education in Alabama to employ a mental health service coordinator beginning in the 2022-2023 school year, subject to legislative appropriations.

• Mental health service coordinator must possess at least one qualification: bachelor's degree in social work, school counselor credentials, school nurse credentials, professional mental health experience, relevant licensure (licensed professional counselor or marriage and family therapist), or other qualifications determined by the Alabama Department of Mental Health and State Department of Education.

• Coordinators must earn a school-based mental health certificate within one year of hire by completing a certification program developed by the Alabama Department of Mental Health.

• Each local board of education must complete and submit a needs assessment and resource map to the Alabama Department of Mental Health by the last day of fiscal year 2022, and as requested thereafter, documenting the mental health status and resources of schools under its jurisdiction.

• The Alabama Department of Mental Health and State Department of Education may adopt rules and policies necessary for implementation, with all administration subject to legislative appropriations.