Louisiana House Bill HB53

Louisiana 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/8/19
• Refer: 3/8/19
• Refer: 4/8/19
• Report Pass: 5/7/19
• Engrossed: 5/21/19
• Refer: 5/22/19
• Report Pass: 5/27/19
• Enrolled: 5/31/19
• Chaptered: 6/4/19
• Passed: 6/4/19

Caption

Provides relative to suicide prevention in schools

Impact

If enacted, HB53 significantly impacts school policies by requiring all secondary schools in Louisiana to implement youth suicide prevention programs that meet state guidelines. Each school will be designated as a 'Suicide Prevention Certified School,' providing a community-centric approach to mental health. Additionally, the bill stipulates that student identification cards include contact information for local and national suicide prevention resources, further promoting student safety and accessibility to help.

Summary

House Bill 53, known as the Jason Flatt Act, aims to establish comprehensive suicide prevention programs within Louisiana's schools. The legislation mandates annual training for all public and approved nonpublic school employees, focusing on awareness of risk factors associated with youth suicide and responding effectively to students in crisis. The training is designed to equip educators with the necessary tools and resources to identify potential signs of distress, as well as coordinate responses to prevent tragic outcomes related to student welfare.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB53 is overwhelmingly positive among educators and mental health advocates. Proponents view the bill as a crucial step towards safeguarding student mental health and addressing the pressing issue of suicide among youth. The training provisions are seen as essential for creating informed school environments where staff can actively contribute to student well-being. However, there may be logistical concerns regarding implementation and ensuring that all schools receive the necessary resources and training materials.

Contention

While there is strong support for HB53, some argue that the effectiveness of such programs relies heavily on adequate funding and resources for schools, particularly in underserved areas. Additionally, concerns about the training's depth and consistency across varying school districts may pose challenges. Nonetheless, the bill's introduction highlights a significant commitment to addressing youth mental health, setting a precedent for future educational policies.