This bill amends current law to require public school instruction in suicide prevention for students in grades kindergarten through 12, expanding the existing mandate that previously applied only to elementary, middle, and high school students. The revised instruction will now also encompass mental health as it relates to suicide prevention and must be tailored to the age and understanding of the students. The State Board of Education is tasked with revising the Core Curriculum Content Standards in Comprehensive Health and Physical Education to include this instruction within 180 days of the bill's enactment.

Additionally, the bill outlines specific minimum elements that must be included in the suicide prevention instruction. These elements cover a range of topics, including wellness and self-care, the integral role of mental health, recognition of warning signs of suicide, awareness of risks associated with suicide and self-harm, the connection between mental health and substance abuse, the stigma surrounding mental illness, and the importance of identifying appropriate support systems for suicide prevention. The act is set to take effect immediately and will first apply to the full school year following its enactment.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 18A:6-113