CA SB509

Requires school districts serving grades 7-12 to certify by July 1, 2027, that 100% of certificated employees and 40% of classified staff with direct pupil contact have received youth behavioral health training.

Directs the State Department of Education to identify evidence-based training programs addressing signs and symptoms of mental health and substance abuse disorders by January 1, 2025, for elementary schools (kindergarten through grade 6).

Mandates mental health instruction be included in health curriculum for grades 1-6, beginning immediately, as part of existing health education requirements.

Prohibits youth behavioral health training from being a condition of employment or hiring, and allows completion of training outside the district to satisfy certification requirements.

Permits licensed mental health professionals holding pupil personnel services credentials to provide training to other school employees if the program is department-approved.