H.R. 3510: Saving Students with Software Act

The bill, titled "Saving Students with Software Act," aims to create a grant program managed by the Secretary of Education specifically for assisting states with the costs related to suicide prevention software for elementary and secondary schools. Here is a breakdown of its main components:

Grant Program Establishment

Within 180 days after the bill is enacted, the Secretary of Education is required to establish a program to award grants to states. The purpose of these grants is to help cover the expenses associated with suicide prevention software used in schools. The intention behind this program is to enhance student safety by providing schools with tools that can identify and address student mental health concerns.

Eligibility for Grants

To qualify for a grant under this program, a state must submit an application to the Secretary of Education. The application needs to follow specific guidelines set by the Secretary, including the necessary information and assurances that may be deemed appropriate.

Definitions Included in the Bill

The bill includes several important definitions to clarify its terms:

• Elementary School: Defined according to section 8101 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965.
• Secondary School: Also defined according to section 8101 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965.
• State: Refers to each of the states, the District of Columbia, U.S. territories or possessions, and federally recognized Indian Tribes.
• Suicide Prevention Software: Software designed to be installed on devices used in schools that can alert school staff if a student types words or phrases associated with self-harm or suicide.

Implementation Timeline

The bill lays out a specific timeline for implementation, requiring the program to be established in a timely manner to ensure that states can begin applying for grants and, subsequently, schools can begin using the software as quickly as possible to promote student safety.

Funding Purpose

The primary purpose of the funding through the grant program is to facilitate the procurement of technology that can help in monitoring and potentially preventing situations related to student mental health crises, thereby contributing to overall student wellbeing within educational environments.

Impact on Schools

The envisioned impact of the bill is to provide educational institutions with necessary resources that can help in recognizing mental health issues early. By giving schools access to real-time alerts concerning concerning behaviors or statements from students, it aims to foster a safer and more supportive school atmosphere.

Relevant Companies

None found