House Bill No. 392, known as the "Student Suicide Prevention Awareness Act," amends existing law to enhance the requirements for posting suicide prevention hotline information in middle and high schools. The bill broadens the applicability of these requirements, mandating that each public and approved nonpublic middle and high school post the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline number (988) on their websites, along with an explanation that this number can be called or texted. Additionally, schools are required to include a local suicide prevention hotline number, if available, and a link to Louisiana988.org, a suicide prevention initiative by the Louisiana Department of Health. The bill also allows for this information to be included in student handbooks.

Furthermore, the legislation stipulates that schools issuing student identification cards must print the hotline information on the cards. It also introduces a requirement for schools receiving federal funds to display signage in visible locations that informs students about the 988 hotline and Louisiana988.org, encouraging those in emotional distress to seek help. The signage must include details about the hotline's availability and confidentiality, ensuring that students have easy access to vital resources for mental health support.

Statutes affected:
HB392 Original: 17:4(F)
HB392 Engrossed: 17:4(F)
HB392 Reengrossed: 17:4(F)