MS HB48

Requires all public universities and community colleges to provide annual mental health assessments to all members of school-sponsored athletic teams governed by national or regional sports associations or conferences.

Assessments must evaluate student athletes' emotional state and cognitive functioning through doctor interviews, observation of appearance and behavior, and may include digital screening tools or lab tests.

Assessments may be performed by primary care doctors, psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, behavioral therapists, or mental health counselors, with results kept confidential.

Requires institutions to partner with local or regional behavioral health specialists to administer assessments and provide counseling services and care plans for student athletes with mental health issues.

Extends mental health assessment requirements to all general student population members with an arrest record, and permits universities to recommend participation in mental health diversion programs under the Rivers McGraw Act.