An act relating to mental health screening in schools

H 818 establishes a voluntary mental health screening program for Vermont public school students, administered by school supervisory unions in collaboration with the Agency of Education and Department of Mental Health. The bill requires schools to obtain parental consent before screening students for age-appropriate mental health conditions, provide results to parents, and refer students needing support to resources. Funding of $10,000 is initially appropriated for the program, with 90% distributed based on student enrollment and 10% allocated as needed for additional support. Schools must comply with FERPA privacy rules and provide annual reports on participation and outcomes to the legislature. This affects all Vermont public school students and their families through school-based screening options.