The Bill Spill

VA SB90

Senator Barbara Favola proposed Senate Bill 90, legislation that would expand educational support for at-risk children and youth across Virginia. If passed and funded through the state appropriation process, the bill would establish a voluntary At-Risk program aimed at improving outcomes for students in schools with high concentrations of at-risk youth.

The legislation proposes reduced student-to-teacher ratios and class sizes in grades K–3. It would also allocate funding to increase staffing and support services, including dual-language teachers and resources for students with disabilities. 

VA HB335

Chief Patron Debra Gardner proposed a bill to provide mental health screenings and resources for youth across Virginia. The legislation would implement annual mental health screenings for students in grades 6–12. The program is aimed at helping parents identify and address their children’s mental health needs. 

Parents would be notified when screenings take place and would receive resources and referrals to help address their child’s mental health concerns. The screenings would be accessible to all students. Additionally, parents would have the option to opt their child out within the first two weeks of the school year. 

The bill was officially enacted into law in April 2026.

Click here to read April’s Bill Spill.