The Bill Spill- September 2024

S.B. 498

Senate Bill 498 enlists the Board of Education to create guidelines in response to overdoses connected to a school, including those occurring on campus and school property. The bill requires an action plan for every school board to implement if an overdose were to occur. The plan includes notifying parental figures in a manner that protects the privacy of the victim(s) and follows and accounts for any laws when it comes to protecting a minor’s personal information. The bill also includes plans for communication with law enforcement and the Department of Education in such a situation. The bill was signed by Governor Youngkin and took effect in July 2024.

H.R. 8815

In June, the House of Representatives introduced a bill known as the Youth and Family Engagement in Child Welfare Act. The bill focuses on increasing the involvement and input of youth and families who have encountered the child welfare system. The objective is to improve the lives of those affected by the child welfare system by listening to those who know of it firsthand. It seeks to ensure individuals and their families are more involved in the decisions that will impact their lives and families. The bill is still in its early stages and has been referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.