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ARIZONA STATE SENATE
Fifty-Seventh Legislature, Second Regular Session
mental health instruction requirement; repeal
Purpose
Removes the requirement for mental health instruction to incorporate the multiple dimensions of health. Repeals, on January 1, 2037, the statutory requirements on the State Board of Education (SBE) to require all health education instruction to include mental health instruction.
Background
The SBE must prescribe a minimum course of study, academic standards and competency requirements for common schools and high schools. The SBE-prescribed competency requirements must include the academic standards in at least the areas of reading, writing, mathematics, science and social studies as adopted by the SBE. A school district governing board must prescribe curricula according to the SBE-prescribed academic standards and approve courses of study, units that are recommended for credit and instructional materials. The SBE's rules require students to demonstrate competency in the subject of health and physical education, including mental health (A.R.S. §§ 15-701; 15-701.01; 15-721; and 15-722; A.A.C. R7-2-301).
Laws 2021, Chapter 445 requires the SBE, in adopting course of study and competency requirements, to require that all health education instruction include mental health instruction. Mental health instruction may be included in a health course or another existing course and must incorporate the multiple dimensions of health by including: 1) mental health and the relationship of physical and mental health to enhance student understanding; 2) social and emotional learning; and 3) attitudes and behavior that promoted health and well-being. In adopting the mental health instruction requirement, the SBE must consult with: 1) mental health experts, including representatives from the Department of Health Services; 2) mental health advocacy organizations that are based in Arizona; and 3) the Arizona Department of Education.
There is no anticipated fiscal impact to the state General Fund associated with this legislation.
Provisions
1. Removes the requirement for mental health instruction to incorporate the multiple dimensions of health by including:
a) mental health and the relationship of physical and mental health to enhance student understanding;
b) social and emotional learning; and
c) attitudes and behavior that promote health and well-being.
2. Repeals, on January 1, 2037, the statutory requirements on the SBE to require all health education instruction to include mental health instruction and consult with outlined individuals and organizations in adopting the mental health instruction requirements.
3. Removes the requirement for mental health instruction to incorporate the multiple dimensions of health by including:
a) mental health and the relationship of physical and mental health to enhance student understanding;
b) social and emotional learning; and
c) attitudes and behavior that promote health and well-being.
4. Repeals, on January 1, 2037, the statutory requirements on the SBE to require all health education instruction to include mental health instruction and consult with outlined individuals and organizations in adopting the mental health instruction requirements.
5. Becomes effective on the general effective date.
House Action
ED 2/10/26 DP 7-5-0-0
3rd Read 3/17/26 31-22-6-0-1
Prepared by Senate Research
March 23, 2026
MH/KP/hk