89R12644 KRT-D
By: Hunter H.C.R. No. 62
CONCURRENT RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, Suicide rates rose across the United States from
2000 to 2022, and the State of Texas saw a nearly 37 percent
increase during that period; and
WHEREAS, According to the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention, suicide is the 11th leading cause of death in the
nation, claiming more than 48,000 lives in 2021 alone, and data
indicates that the number and rate of suicides in the U.S. increased
by more than four percent from 2020 to 2021; moreover, there are
millions of adults who have seriously considered or attempted
suicide, and the stigma associated with mental health conditions
often prevents these individuals from seeking the care they need;
and
WHEREAS, There has also been an alarming increase in the
number of suicide attempts and deaths by suicide in Texas
correctional institutions, with little understanding of what the
cause might be; and
WHEREAS, While the social impact of these deaths is
undeniable but difficult to quantify, the economic toll of suicide
on society is clear, with suicides and suicide attempts totaling
hundreds of billions of dollars in medical and work-loss costs; and
WHEREAS, All 50 states have a suicide prevention plan, but
most states, including Texas, do not require suicide prevention
training for health care professionals; evidence shows that states
and communities can do more to identify and support people at risk
of suicide by teaching coping skills, promoting safe and supportive
environments, and connecting people to effective and coordinated
mental and physical health care; and
WHEREAS, Suicide is a public health issue of vital importance
to all Texans, and the development of suicide prevention strategies
would help to save lives; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the 89th Legislature of the State of Texas
hereby request the Lieutenant Governor and the Speaker of the House
of Representatives to create a joint interim committee to study
suicide prevention in Texas, including in Texas correctional
institutions; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the committee's proceedings and operations be
governed by such general rules and policies for interim committees
as the 89th Texas Legislature may adopt; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the committee shall submit a full report,
including findings and recommendations, to the 90th Texas
Legislature before it convenes in January 2027.