Requests the Louisiana Department of Education to develop and implement a system for collecting and reporting aggregated, non-identifiable data on suicide risk assessments conducted in public schools.
Impact
The implementation of SR119 is expected to lead to a systematic approach in understanding the mental health landscape of students within Louisiana's public schools. By mandating annual reports from school districts on the number of suicide risk assessments conducted, along with demographic information and referrals to mental health services, the bill will allow for a data-driven approach to enhance mental health resources. This data will not only help identify trends and gaps in services but will also facilitate resource allocation to better support at-risk youth.
Summary
Senate Resolution 119, authored by Senator Mizell, aims to address the pressing issue of youth suicide in Louisiana by calling for the Louisiana Center for Safe Schools to establish a comprehensive system for collecting and reporting aggregated, non-identifiable data on suicide risk assessments conducted in public schools across the state. This resolution highlights the alarming statistic that suicide has become the second leading cause of death for teenagers in Louisiana and emphasizes the urgent need for targeted mental health interventions within the educational system.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SR119 appears to be positive, with a consensus on the necessity of taking action to prevent youth suicides and promote mental well-being. Supporters recognize the significance of an evidence-based foundation for future mental health initiatives in schools. However, there may be concerns about the capacity of schools to implement these measures effectively and the need for adequate training and resources to carry out the data collection in a way that respects student privacy.
Contention
While SR119 presents a proactive step towards mental health awareness and suicide prevention, potential contention lies in its execution. Some stakeholders may argue about the logistics of collecting and reporting the required data, particularly regarding ensuring that it remains non-identifiable while still being comprehensive enough to inform policy. Additionally, the involvement of organizations like the Louisiana Mental Health Association and Peer Initiative in developing training and guidelines is crucial for the resolution's success, and there may be differing opinions on the best methods to fulfill these goals.
Urges and requests the Louisiana Department of Health to assist in the development of a public service campaign to foster awareness and education on perinatal mental health care.
Requests the state Department of Education, Department of Children and Family Services, and Louisiana Department of Health to collaborate to increase mental health counseling in public schools
Requests the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to prioritize mental health instruction and training in suicide prevention in its rulemaking process
Requests the Louisiana Department of Health to develop and implement a plan for managed care organizations to provide reimbursement for certain psychological services.
Creates the Community Responder Task Force to study the implementation of a partnership between law enforcement agencies, behavioral health providers, and hospitals.
Requests that the Bd. of Regents and the State Bd. of Elementary and Secondary Education, with the Taylor Foundation, La. Office of Student Financial Assistance, public postsecondary education management boards, and certain others, study certain issues relative to TOPS
Requests the Louisiana Workforce Commission and the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs to study employment practices and professional licensing requirements to benefit veterans in the workforce
Creates a task force to study meaningful oversight of the professional healthcare licensing boards statutorily created within the Department of Health and Hospitals.