Requires the development of course materials for mandatory continuing education for teachers relating to mental health issues.
Summary
This bill requires the state education and mental health agencies to develop course materials for use in mandatory continuing teacher and leader education on mental health-related topics. The training must cover mental health programs and activities, eating disorders, behavioral health disorders, best practices for improving the learning environment, safe de-escalation of crisis situations, recognizing early signs and symptoms of mental illness and behavioral health issues, and evidence-based approaches such as mental health first aid.
The bill also amends the teacher continuing education law to require that, during each five-year registration period, educators complete mental health-related continuing education at least twice. It directs the Department of Education to set rigorous standards for qualifying courses and authorizes the commissioner to adopt any necessary rules and regulations. The bill would take effect on January 1 following enactment, with immediate authorization for implementing regulations.
Impact
The bill would amend both the mental hygiene law and the education law by adding a specific mental health training component to New York’s existing continuing teacher and leader education requirements. It would affect teachers, principals, and other education professionals subject to registration and continuing education obligations, while also involving the commissioner of mental health, the Office of Addiction Services and Supports, the Department of Health, and the Department of Education in developing the required materials and standards.
Sentiment
Based on the bill text and the absence of recorded votes or committee discussion, the measure appears to be framed as a supportive, preventive education initiative focused on student well-being and classroom safety. The bill’s emphasis on mental health awareness, crisis de-escalation, and evidence-based training suggests a generally favorable policy approach aimed at helping educators respond to student needs.
Contention
No committee transcript or voting history is provided, so there is no documented opposition or support to identify. Potential points of contention, if raised, could include the added compliance burden on educators, the cost and availability of approved training, and whether the state should mandate a specific amount of mental health-related continuing education within the existing registration cycle.
Requires domestic violence coursework for applicants for license and mandatory continuing education classes for psychology, licensed master social worker, mental health counseling, marriage and family therapy, and mental health practitioners.
Requires acupuncturists registered with the state to complete 45 hours of mandatory continuing education requirements every registration period; specifies acceptable courses of continuing education; provides exceptions.
Requires acupuncturists registered with the state to complete 45 hours of mandatory continuing education requirements every registration period; specifies acceptable courses of continuing education; provides exceptions.
Requires training for teachers and administrators in the area of mental health response; requires office of mental health to assist in development of curriculum for training.