HB 2597 relates to sexual abuse response plans. Currently, schools are mandated to adopt a plan for recognition, initial screening, and response to emotional or behavioral distress in students, including but not limited to indicators of possible substance abuse, violence, and youth suicide. The bill would add sexual abuse to this clause. The bill would amend law to indicate these plans must include information regarding how staff should respond when allegations of sexual contact or abuse are made and how the district will provide training on the obligation to report physical abuse and sexual misconduct to staff.