HI HB603

Appropriates funds from general revenues for fiscal years 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 to hire school-based youth mental health specialists for Department of Education schools (specific dollar amount not specified in bill text).

Addresses findings that Native Hawaiians, Pacific Islanders, and youth in Hawaii have disproportionately high suicide rates, with up to 20 percent of high school students experiencing suicidal ideation between 2005-2013.

Recognizes that suicide is the fourth leading cause of death for children ages 10-14 and the leading cause of death for youth ages 15-24 in Hawaii.

Notes that school counseling offices are understaffed and often staffed by social workers lacking specialized mental health training to address student trauma, grief, depression, and other crises.

Takes effect on June 30, 3000 (note: effective date appears to contain a typographical error).