Bill aims to expand school‐based mental health workforce

During Mental Health Awareness Month, Sen. Jeff Merkley (D‐Ore.) and Rep. John Mannion (D‐N.Y.) reintroduced the Elementary and Secondary School Counseling Act, which would expand access to mental health providers in public schools. The legislation would establish renewable five‐year grants to help high‐need schools hire counselors, psychologists and social workers, according to a news release from Sen. Merkley's office. National staffing levels remain well below recommended ratios. In the 2024–25 school year, schools averaged 372 students per counselor (recommended: 250), and 1,071 students per school psychologist (recommended: 500). No state meets the recommended ratio for school social workers. Advocates point to strong links between in‐school access and care utilization: students with school‐based services are far more likely to seek help. Higher staffing levels are also associated with improved attendance and academic outcomes, as well as fewer disciplinary incidents. The Elementary and Secondary School Counseling Act is endorsed by such organizations as the American Federation of Teachers, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, American Mental Health Counselors Association, American Psychological Association, American School Counselor Association, International Society of Psychiatric‐Mental Health Nurses and the Jed Foundation.