Alaska Weaver, Freshmen
Pennsylvania is considering adding a new law that allows students to have excused mental health days. However, there is controversy on the ethics, legality, and risks of the bill.
The Bill
The goal of this bill is to allow K-12 students to have mental health days without the fear of truancy. If passed, Pennsylvania will join the 12 other states that have either implemented or are trying to implement mental health absences.
On June 6th, 2025, the first memo by Napoleon J. Nelson was presented in front of the whole house. In his memo, he talked about how the bill will help staff connect to students who are struggling with mental health before they drop out or resort to suicide.
While the bill does not create more sick days available, it will create a new option. These days will not require a doctor’s note or a diagnosis to reach as many students as possible. In addition, if students take 2 or more mental health days, school staff are required to speak with the student. This will allow the school to get help to the student if needed, or help lower the risk of students taking advantage of the policy.
Opinions
Mrs. Waldmann, one of the school counselors, said, “Lots of students would benefit from it.” She also mentioned the fine line and barrier of kids needing it, and kids who would take advantage of the policy. Science teacher Mrs. Laflamme said, “Mental health is just as important as physical health.”
While students also agree that it can be good, freshman Sophia Schneider said, “It’s a good idea, but I think you should need a diagnosis to have the day off.” She recognized that there are students who will take advantage of the day off, but will also help students.
Background
According to the 2023 PA report, 98000 students ages 12-17 have depression, with no care or action being put in place. High school students with depression are more likely to drop out, and the second leading cause of death for adolescents is suicide. Teen mental health is being recognized as a crisis in America. “The Commonwealth needs to take care of its citizens,” said Napoleon J. Nelson in his memo
Utah and Oregon have already passed legislation to allow their students to have mental health days. “ I plan to introduce legislation modeled after the Utah law that allows students to take excused absences to help them treat and recover from mental health issues.” Napoleon J. Nelson said.
The bill has gone through the House and will be going through the Senate soon. There is a high probability that the bill will be passed and implemented in schools. Do you think this is the right thing to do for the students of PA?
Sources:
House Co-Sponsorship Memo 46879 Information; 2025-2026 Regular Session – PA House of Representatives
February 2026 Education Update – KEYTA
Proposed bill would allow Pennsylvania students to take mental health days
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