Louisiana 2020 Regular Session

Louisiana House Bill HB840

Introduced
3/31/20  
Introduced
3/31/20  
Refer
5/4/20  

Caption

Provides with respect to instruction and training relative to the safety of students, including suicide and violence prevention

Impact

The proposed law mandates that each public school serving grades 6-12 provide students with at least one hour of evidence-based instruction in violence prevention and establishes student-led violence prevention clubs. Furthermore, the bill encourages schools to provide instruction on social inclusion, thus addressing social isolation among students. By integrating these components into the educational curriculum, the bill seeks to foster a safe and inclusive environment for students, which may contribute positively to overall mental health and community well-being.

Summary

House Bill 840 aims to enhance student safety within public schools by addressing crucial topics such as suicide prevention, violence prevention, and social inclusion. This legislation requires the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) to provide rules for a statewide youth suicide prevention plan that includes training for teachers and school officials. New training requirements emphasize the identification of warning signs of depression and self-injury, equipping school staff with the knowledge to support students in need effectively.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 840 appears to be supportive, as it addresses critical issues affecting student safety and mental health. Legislators and advocacy groups focusing on school safety have praised the bill for its proactive measures. However, there may be some apprehension regarding the implementation of these programs and the adequacy of funding or resources available for schools to successfully execute training and instruction effectively.

Contention

While there is broad support for enhancing student safety, some concerns may arise regarding the practicality of implementing these mandates in schools that are already under-resourced. Ensuring that each school has the necessary staff and training to deliver these programs effectively could present challenges. Additionally, the requirement for in-service training may strain existing teacher schedules and resources, which could lead to discussions about funding and administrative support to ensure these initiatives are successful.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

LA HB495

Requires the implementation of suicide prevention and student safety and violence and social isolation prevention training and the creation of clubs at certain public schools (EN SEE FISC NOTE LF EX See Note)

LA HB53

Provides relative to suicide prevention in schools

LA SCR50

Requests the state Department of Education to identify providers of violence and suicide prevention training that is available at no or low cost.

LA SB1302

Relating to the creation of a suicide awareness and prevention, youth violence prevention, and social inclusion program for public school students.

LA A07687

Updates provisions relating to dignity for all students including establishing the student suicide prevention act which includes curriculum and teacher training requirements designed to prevent student suicide with a focus on LGBTQ students.

LA HB2086

In terms and courses of study, further providing for youth suicide awareness and prevention and providing for violence prevention and social inclusion.

LA HB356

In terms and courses of study, further providing for youth suicide awareness and prevention and providing for violence prevention and social inclusion.

LA SB764

In terms and courses of study, further providing for youth suicide awareness and prevention and providing for violence prevention and social inclusion.

LA AB58

Pupil health: suicide prevention policies and training.

LA HB308

Provides relative to reports and certain commissions and advisory councils with respect to the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education and the state Department of Education

Similar Bills

NJ A3526

Requires NJ Youth Suicide Prevention Advisory Council to prepare report regarding suicide prevention instruction in public schools.

NJ S1662

Requires NJ Youth Suicide Prevention Advisory Council to prepare report regarding suicide prevention instruction in public schools.

MS HB857

Literacy-based Promotion Act; revise to expand intervention and strategies for literacy proficiency among students in Grade 4 through 8.

NJ S2206

Requires NJ Youth Suicide Prevention Advisory Council to prepare report regarding suicide prevention instruction in public schools.

MI SB0567

Education: other; prescreening for dyslexia in public schools; provide for. Amends sec. 1280f of 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.1280f).

CA AB1376

Apprenticeship: preapprenticeship programs for women.

MS HB1626

Mathematics Proficiency and Intervention Act; establish to provide intensive multitiered system of supports for students in kindergarten through Grade 3.

MI SB0376

Education: school districts; requirements related to the retention of certain grade 3 pupils; provide for. Amends sec. 1280f of 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.1280f).