Evidence-based mental health training; grants to intermediate districts.

Sec. 31p. (1) From the state school aid fund money appropriated under section 11, there is allocated for 2026-2027 only an amount not to exceed $3,000,000.00 for grants to intermediate districts to implement a program as described in subsection (2). (2) The program described in this subsection must improve youth access to evidence-based mental health services by training school mental health professionals in effective practices, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness. (3) The department shall establish a grant process to distribute funds under this section. (4) The department shall award, in an equal amount, grants under this section to each intermediate district that has an approved grant application for funding under this section. Intermediate districts must forward to the program described in subsection (2) an amount equal to the amount awarded to the intermediate district under this subsection to contract with the program. The program must use funding received from intermediate districts to satisfy the terms of the contracts with the intermediate districts on a statewide basis. (5) Notwithstanding section 17b, the department shall make payments under this section on a schedule determined by the department.