Student Mental Health Rights Act

Student Mental Health Rights Act

This bill addresses mental health and substance use at institutions of higher education (IHEs).

Specifically, the bill requires the Department of Education (ED) to conduct a study on mental health conditions and substance use conditions at IHEs.

In addition, ED must issue guidance on IHEs' (1) compliance with federal law on mental health, (2) legal obligations to students with mental health conditions and students with substance use conditions, and (3) policies that may have a discriminatory impact on such students.

Bill 117 HR 7370, also known as the Student Mental Health Rights Act, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress that aims to protect and promote the mental health rights of students in educational settings. The bill seeks to address the growing concern of mental health issues among students and the need for proper support and resources to address these issues.

The Student Mental Health Rights Act includes several key provisions. Firstly, it requires schools to develop and implement mental health policies and procedures to support students' mental health needs. This includes providing access to mental health resources, counseling services, and support programs.

Additionally, the bill mandates that schools must train staff members on recognizing and responding to mental health issues in students. This training will help ensure that students receive the necessary support and intervention when facing mental health challenges. Furthermore, the Student Mental Health Rights Act emphasizes the importance of confidentiality and privacy when it comes to students' mental health information. Schools are required to protect students' privacy rights and ensure that their mental health information is kept confidential. Overall, the Student Mental Health Rights Act aims to create a supportive and inclusive environment for students to address their mental health needs. By prioritizing mental health resources, training staff members, and protecting students' privacy rights, this bill seeks to improve the overall mental well-being of students in educational settings.