GA SB490

Students in Georgia public schools shall be granted up to 3 excused absences per school year for mental health days, defined as absences due to mental health or emotional well-being

Parents/guardians must notify the school of mental health day absences; students 18 or older or emancipated minors may provide their own notification

Schools cannot require students or parents to disclose specific information about the student's mental health condition to receive the excused absence

Public schools must notify parents at the beginning of each school year or upon enrollment about available mental health resources and services

Effective July 1, 2026, applying to the 2026-2027 school year; the State Board of Education must develop a model policy for local school systems