San Jose, CA - On February 15, a bill co-sponsored by the Santa Clara County Office of Education (SCCOE) was introduced to the State Senate. Senator Anthony J. Portantino (D - Burbank) authored Senate Bill 551 (SB 551) to expand school-based behavioral health services. This bill builds on Proposition 63, the Mental Health Services Act or MHSA.
"Students are struggling with mental health now more than ever," said Dr. Mary Ann Dewan, Santa Clara County Superintendent of Schools. "This legislation takes what the research tells us - that children are 21 times more likely to receive health and mental health services when they are provided where students are - on a school campus. This strategic solution will help address the overwhelming anxiety, depression, and hopelessness that students are experiencing."
The bill outlines the following:
- 20% of total funding must be allocated in each county for Prevention and Early Intervention (PEI)
- 51% of PEI funds shall be used to provide services to children and youth (ages 0-25)
- Would require all counties to collaborate with districts to allocate 20% of PEI funds towards school-based behavioral health services
- Requires students and public school employees participate on Mental Health Boards
“When we have stronger partnerships and collaboration, our children benefit,” said Senator Portantino. “SB 551 strengthens Prop 63 by improving intergovernmental partnerships to ensure that we prioritize our children. As our youth continue to grapple with behavioral health challenges, we must focus on providing them with the tools they need to improve their mental health and wellbeing.”
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About the Santa Clara County Office of Education
Working collaboratively with school and community partners, the Santa Clara County Office of Education (SCCOE) is a regional service agency committed to serving, inspiring, and promoting student and public school success. The SCCOE is a premier service organization driven by the core principles of equity, diversity, inclusion, and partnership. For more information about the Santa Clara County Office of Education, please visit www.sccoe.org and follow us @SCCOE on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.