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Daley bill to boost student mental health support, train staff passes House

H.B. 1706 would require PIAA to include mental health awareness in curriculum

Rep. Mary Jo Daley    April 15, 2026 | 3:53 PM

HARRISBURG, April 15 – The Pennsylvania House of Representatives today passed legislation to strengthen mental health awareness for students and provide critical training for coaches and staff at schools across the commonwealth, announced the bill’s sponsor, state Rep. Mary Jo Daley.

House Bill 1706 would require that coaches receive mental health awareness training like the training required of other school personnel. The bill would also ensure that all students, their parents or guardians, athletic staff and extracurricular advisors are informed of the availability of mental health services within their school and local community.

According to reports, nearly 20% of students have seriously considered suicide, while 75% report struggling with anxiety. Furthermore, while a significant number of students express a need for professional mental health support, roughly 65% say that they are uncomfortable speaking to family or friends about their struggles, often turning to coaches and extracurricular advisors for support.

Meanwhile, a study surveying more than 10,000 coaches found that only 18% of youth coaches feel highly confident in their ability to link athletes to mental health resources, and 67% say they want more training and information on the subject.

“For many students, school isn't just about classes – it's where they grow, socialize and find their sense of belonging,” said Daley, D-Montgomery. “These dedicated individuals shape lives not just by teaching lessons or leading practice, but by being present, involved and supportive.”

House Bill 1706, which is now with the Senate for consideration, aims to address these challenges by requiring:

  • The Pa. Department of Education to post online materials to help public school students, parents and coaches recognize signs of mental health distress or illness.
  • Public schools to notify parents, students, coaches and extracurricular staff twice per year about available mental health resources.
  • The Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association to include mental health awareness in its training of coaches.
  • Schools to refer students to an assistance program within 14 days if they show sudden behavioral changes or are habitually truant.

Daley said that her legislation is ultimately designed to break the stigma surrounding mental health and ensure that coaches have the tools to act as a crucial support network for student-athletes.

“This legislation aims to ensure that when a student is not okay, every adult in that student’s orbit is equipped to help them find support,” Daley said. “It truly takes a village.”