HB 1357 — "Butler Act" — Mental Health Education and Training

• All persons working in roles involving direct interaction with youth — including educators, counselors, mentors, and coaches — must undergo mental health education and training covering recognition of mental health signs/symptoms, methods of support, and guidelines for referring youth to qualified professionals.
• Training must include specialized instruction on respectfully interacting with youth, emphasizing active listening, respecting their rights and dignity, and fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.
• The Department of Children and Families must establish and maintain dedicated, youth-accessible spaces within educational institutions, community centers, and other youth-centric venues for disseminating mental health information and resources.
• Violations may result in penalties, additional training requirements, or other measures as determined by department rule; the department, in collaboration with relevant agencies, is responsible for implementation and enforcement.
• Funding shall be allocated from state funds and supplemented by federal grants and private-sector partnerships; the act has an effective date of July 1, 2024.