HI SCR43

Department of Education, in consultation with the Department of Health, is urged to study the costs and benefits of hiring one mental health professional per 250 students in public schools, or one per school for schools with fewer than 250 students.

Study would also analyze the costs and benefits of developing guidelines for establishing telehealth safe spaces on school property during school hours and distributing these guidelines to all public middle and high schools.

Resolution cites increasing rates of depressive symptoms and suicidal thoughts among students, along with Hawaii's shortage of mental health professionals, as reasons for the study.

Decline in youth telehealth usage may be attributed to the lack of safe, quiet spaces for students to conduct virtual mental health sessions during school hours.

Department of Education is requested to submit a report with findings, recommendations, and proposed legislation no later than 20 days before the 2027 Regular Session.