Establishes requirements for removal of students from public school pending mental health clearance.

This New Jersey bill (S 2598) requires public school districts, charter schools, and special education programs to establish clear policies for removing students from school pending a mental health assessment. It mandates that such removals only occur in emergencies where a student poses immediate danger to themselves or others, with written documentation, parent notification within 48 hours, and free mental health assessments for families. Schools must also update individualized education plans (IEPs) or 504 plans after a student returns, and cannot charge families for the assessment unless they choose a clinician outside the school’s approved list. The bill applies to all public and specialized school settings in New Jersey and aims to standardize emergency removal procedures while protecting student rights.