MO HB2223

Establishes a comprehensive school-based mental health program jointly administered by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and Department of Mental Health to assist children in dealing with trauma and violence.

Requires the program to provide financial support, technical assistance, and policy development help to local communities implementing culturally and linguistically appropriate school mental health programs that incorporate positive behavioral interventions.

Mandates in-service training for school personnel and comprehensive training for families on identifying trauma and mental health issues in children, using referral mechanisms, promoting positive school environments, and understanding the impact of trauma and violence.

Creates the "School-based Mental Health Program Fund" in the state treasury to be funded by legislative appropriations and grants, with funds used solely for program administration and non-reverting at the end of each biennium.

Program automatically sunsets six years after the effective date unless reauthorized by the General Assembly, with extended sunset to twelve years if reauthorized.