GA HB554

Establishes the APEX Now Program within the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities to provide mental health services to students and school personnel experiencing violence, threats, natural disasters, or other crises

Requires a joint mental health crisis plan from the Department of Behavioral Health and Department of Education by January 1, 2026, including designation of a crisis response team and training for school personnel as mental health first responders

Creates a 24-hour online and telephonic hotline for school personnel to refer students for mental health services and for students/staff to anonymously report suicide risks or violence threats to educational and law enforcement authorities

Mandates consultation with a mental health professional within 24 hours for urgent referrals or 5 business days for non-urgent referrals, with services available in-person or via telehealth

Requires the Department of Administrative Services to contract with at least three mental health telehealth providers statewide, and establishes an electronic parental consent opt-in system beginning with the 2025-2026 school year