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Primary Sponsor

Last Action

Re-ref Com On Appropriations/Base Budget2026-04-23

Vote Breakdown

No floor votes recorded.

Plain Language Summary

This bill creates two programs to increase mental health support in North Carolina schools: a $50 million grant program for public school units to hire mental health professionals, and a $19 million loan repayment program that provides up to $15,000 annually to school counselors, psychologists, social workers, and nurses working in high-need areas who graduated from UNC schools.

Arguments in Favor

• •Supporters argue this bill addresses a critical shortage of mental health services in schools, particularly in underserved communities where students lack access to care.
• •They contend that the loan repayment program will attract and retain qualified mental health professionals in high-need schools, improving student mental health outcomes and reducing barriers to treatment for students without insurance or with disabilities.

Arguments Against

• •Opponents may argue that $69 million in new recurring spending is a significant budget commitment during uncertain economic times.
• •They might also question whether the loan repayment program's restriction to UNC graduates and high-need areas is the most cost-effective approach, or whether funds could serve more students through alternative mental health initiatives or by removing barriers to federal funding.