HB 3540 Missouri House · 2026 Regular Session

Creates the journaling for joy mental wellness program

HB 3540 creates a voluntary mental wellness program called "Journaling for Joy" for school districts and charter schools. Starting in the 2027-28 school year, it allows schools to implement the program for students in third, sixth, and twelfth grades using approved curriculum that includes journaling workbooks, instructor guides, and structured prompts focused on emotional regulation and conflict resolution - without providing therapy or collecting identifiable mental health data. Schools must train teachers using department-approved materials, and the education department will track participation and non-identifiable outcomes like school climate through annual reports. The program expires on August 28, 2033, and requires annual state funding approval for implementation.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Feb 27, 2026 Last action May 15, 2026
Floor votes

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Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
3
Key actions
0
Committee
1
May 15, 2026
Committee
Referred: Emerging Issues(H)
lower
Feb 27, 2026
Introduced
Introduced and Read First Time (H)
lower
1 primary · 0 co-sponsors

Sponsors

Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Photo of Renee Reuter
Renee Reuter
RRepublican
MO
112