New legislation to install MH professionals in Delaware high schools

Abstract

Delaware Gov. John Carney signed two new pieces of legislation into law on Aug. 7 aimed at improving mental health services and resources for students, ABC-affiliate WMDT reported. House Bill 200 establishes a mental health services unit for Delaware high schools. The goal is to arrive at a final ratio of 250 students for every school counselor or social worker, or licensed school social worker. On top of that, for every 700 students, there would be one school psychologist. Another bill covers how school-based mental health services are reimbursed under Medicaid. The Delaware Department of Health and Social Services is now charged with applying to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services for a state plan amendment. This move would allow for reimbursement of medically necessary behavioral health services without Individualized Education Program or Individualized Family Service Plan documentation. Local education agencies are required to use the reimbursed funds to further invest in school-based behavioral health supports. The Department of Education is also now allowed to retain up to 5% of federal re-imbursement dollars, to cover administrative costs.