H.R. 8961: Student Suicide Prevention Awareness Act of 2026

The bill titled the Student Suicide Prevention Awareness Act of 2026 aims to enhance efforts in preventing youth suicide through improved awareness and access to resources in schools. Here are the main features of the bill:

Public Awareness Campaign

The bill will require the establishment of a public awareness campaign focused on youth suicide prevention resources. This campaign will:

• Coordinate with the Secretary of Health and Human Services.
• Include outreach efforts to develop the campaign.
• Support schools in updating their signage related to youth suicide prevention resources.

Signage Requirements

The bill specifies new requirements for signage in schools regarding the availability of youth suicide prevention resources, specifically:

• The signage must be clear and visible, including:
  • The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline phone number.
  • Information about how students can seek help via calls, texts, or digital chat services.
  • Encouragement for students experiencing emotional distress to seek help.
  • Assurance that the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is free, confidential, and available 24/7.
• The signs should be posted in locations easily accessible to students, such as:
  • Entrances and exits of the school
  • Common areas
  • Counselor offices
  • Nurse offices
  • Gymnasiums
  • Auditoriums
  • Art and music rooms
  • Libraries
  • Restrooms (including stalls and sinks)
  • Locker rooms
  • Digital bulletin boards

Timeline for Implementation

The timeline for certain provisions related to the awareness campaign has been extended, with the deadline for specific tasks updated from 2024 to 2027.

Funding and Support

While the bill itself does not outline specific funding mechanisms, it operates under the authority of the Public Health Service Act, and any eventual public awareness components would typically require appropriations or support from related federal programs.

Overall Impact

This legislation seeks to create more proactive measures within schools to address youth suicide prevention, ensuring that students have better access to the resources needed for mental health support.

Relevant Companies

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