Senate Bill 249 signed into law by Governor Sisolak allows a mental or behavioral health professional to certify that a student isn't able to attend school.

It means students will have mental health days.

The bill also prevents the excused absence from having a negative effect on a schools accountability rating.

Many people see it as a big step for mental health. The bill comes after a tough year in 2020. 

Ethan Steever, Chief Clinical Officer at Willow Springs, says it will advance the mental health conversation.

"Just like if somebody broke a leg, we wouldn't necessarily expect them to be at school tomorrow, we'd expect them to be like, now go home, lay down, heal up, you know -- this I think creates a pathway to that same kind of thing for kids that are struggling with mental health issues," Steever said.

Previously the law only allowed medical professionals to write a note excusing a student from class but, now behavioral and mental health professionals can do the same. The new law will also ensure the number for a local or national suicide prevention hotline will be on the back of students IDs.

"If you are struggling with really severe depression or you were struggling with bipolar disorder, it's really hard to be in school and there may be periods of time where you have to be out of school for a while to heal," Steever said.

Some people we spoke to agree with the law as long as it is for a serious reason -- others say they worry about the academic future of those missing class.

"I do believe they still need either a parent, or somebody else for one-on-one, for their education, no matter what," says Reno resident Karen Ewing.

In a statement the Washoe County School District says:

"The Washoe County School District is committed to creating an environment where students are surrounded by caring adults looking out for their social, academic, and emotional needs.  Our goal is to have students in school every single day.  We understand there may be circumstances which warrant an absence and we will honor the decision of a parent or guardian to keep a student home, whether it be for a physical or mental illness."

If you or a loved one is struggling with depression or suicide, there is help available 24/7 from the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.Â