AR HB1323

Establishes mandatory mental health screening programs in public schools, open enrollment charter schools, private schools, and childcare facilities for children from birth to nineteen years of age upon parental consent.

Requires the Department of Human Services, in consultation with the Department of Education, to approve evidence-based screening programs that are age-appropriate and effectively identify mental health conditions requiring intervention.

Mandates that schools and childcare facilities obtain prior written consent from parents before administering screenings and notify parents of results and available resources if a potential mental health condition is identified.

Allows the Department of Human Services to distribute appropriated funds to help parents pay for mental health resources that cannot be provided by school mental health professionals.

Provides liability protection for school and childcare facility employees who administer approved mental health screenings in good faith and requires annual training for personnel administering the programs.