Prevent Youth Suicide Act

Suicide Prevention Protocols: Schools would implement evidence-based programs, including biennial training for staff to identify signs of distress and risk factors, which can help students in need (Sec. 2(a)(1)).

Mental Health Resource Access: The requirement to establish a referral system helps connect students to appropriate mental health resources both inside and outside of the school (Sec. 2(a)(1)(B)).

Stigma Reduction: Awareness campaigns and educational initiatives are intended to reduce the stigma associated with seeking help for mental health concerns (Sec. 2(a)(1)(C)).

Postvention Support: The development of a suicide postvention plan provides support to students, staff, and the community following a suicide through grief counseling and communication guidelines (Sec. 2(a)(2)).

Safe Learning Environments: The adoption of trauma-informed care and biennial training aims to create a safe and supportive environment by helping staff understand the impact of trauma on students (Sec. 2(a)(3)).

Funding Requirements: Compliance with these new protocols is a condition for receiving funds under applicable programs, which implies that schools not meeting these requirements may face impacts on their funding (Sec. 2(a)).

Compliance Burdens: Educational agencies and institutions will be subject to compliance monitoring, which includes periodic assessments, evaluations, and audits (Sec. 2(b)(2)).