VT H0323

Creates the Mental Health Innovation Special Fund, funded through a voluntary income tax checkoff and public/private donations, with unexpended revenues carrying over to the following fiscal year

Establishes a Behavioral Health Innovation Grant Program administered by the Agency of Human Services beginning January 1, 2026, prioritizing youth services, workforce development, and piloting best practices, with $10,000 appropriated for FY2026

Requires the Agency of Education to select and distribute a mental health and substance misuse literacy curriculum covering wellness resources, warning signs, common conditions, and how to seek help

Authorizes supervisory unions to voluntarily participate in a school-based mental health screening program requiring parental consent, with 90% of funds distributed based on average daily membership and 10% reserved for additional needs

Creates a four-year pilot program beginning August 1, 2026 for peer-to-peer mental health support in schools, prioritizing programs with suicide prevention components or schools in high-risk areas, with $10,000 appropriated for FY2027