The proposed bill, known as the Safety and Violence Education for Students (SAVE Students) Act, amends the Public School Code of 1949 to enhance youth suicide awareness, prevention, and violence prevention training in Pennsylvania schools. It mandates that school entities serving students in grades six through twelve provide at least one hour of evidence-based suicide awareness and prevention training each school year. This training must be delivered within two years of the development of a list of approved programs by the Department of Education, which will also include training on identifying signs of depression and self-injury. Additionally, the bill introduces a new section requiring similar training for violence prevention and social inclusion, applicable to students from kindergarten through grade twelve.

Furthermore, the bill establishes requirements for student-led violence prevention clubs in schools, which must be open to all students and have an adult advisor. These clubs are tasked with promoting awareness of suicide prevention, violence prevention, and social inclusion. The Department of Education is also directed to seek federal or state funding to support the implementation of these initiatives. The act aims to create a safer school environment by equipping students and staff with the necessary skills to recognize and address mental health and safety issues effectively.

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 310 (Jan 27, 2025): P.L.30, No.14
Printer's No. 0310: P.L.30, No.14