Bill Text: VA HB603 | 2024 | Regular Session | Chaptered
Bill Title: Public elementary and secondary schools; programs of instruction on mental health education.
Spectrum: Partisan Bill (Democrat 24-0)
Status: (Passed) 2024-04-17 - Governor: Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0812) [HB603 Detail]
Download: Virginia-2024-HB603-Chaptered.html
Be it enacted by the General Assembly of Virginia:
1. That §22.1-207 of the Code of Virginia is amended and reenacted as follows:
§22.1-207. Physical and health education.
Physical and health education shall be emphasized throughout the public school curriculum by lessons, drills, and physical exercises, and all pupils in the public elementary, middle, and high schools shall receive as part of the educational program such health instruction and physical training as shall be prescribed by the Board of Education and approved by the State Board of Health. Such health instruction shall incorporate standards that recognize the multiple dimensions of health by including mental health and the relationship of physical and mental health so as to enhance student understanding, attitudes, and behavior that promote health, well-being, and human dignity. Such health instruction may include an age-appropriate program of instruction on the safe use of and risks of abuse of prescription drugs that is consistent with curriculum guidelines developed by the Board and approved by the State Board of Health. Such health instruction shall also include the following topics:
1. General themes of life skills, including self-awareness, self-management, responsible decision making, relationship skills, and social awareness;
2. Signs and symptoms of common mental health challenges;
3. Mental health wellness and healthy strategies for coping with stress and negative feelings, including conflict resolution skills;
4. The importance of and guidance on seeking assistance from an adult or mental health professional, including information on services offered within the school or the local school division;
5. The prevalence of mental health challenges and the importance of overcoming common stigmas surrounding such mental health challenges;
6. The connection between mental health and substance use disorders; and
7. The importance of mental health to the student's overall well-being, including physical health and academic success.
