Expressing support for the designation of September 9, 2025, as "National Firearm Suicide Prevention Day" to educate about the growing firearm suicide crisis in the United States and promote the importance of storing firearms safely and securely as an essential component of suicide prevention.
Impact
The resolution advocates for increased discussions among healthcare professionals regarding gun ownership, safe storage practices, and suicide prevention strategies, thus aiming to shift public discourse toward addressing the intersection of mental health issues and gun safety. By designating a specific day for this cause, HR684 seeks to galvanize both public and professional support for ongoing education and preventive measures that can mitigate the risks associated with firearm access, particularly among vulnerable populations such as youth and veterans.
Summary
House Resolution 684 expresses support for the designation of September 9, 2025, as 'National Firearm Suicide Prevention Day.' This initiative aims to raise awareness about the critical issue of firearm suicides in the United States, emphasizing the need for safe and secure firearm storage as a vital component of suicide prevention. The resolution acknowledges alarming statistics, such as the fact that 74 individuals die from firearm-related suicides daily, and that firearms account for 55% of all suicides nationally, highlighting the grave implications of this public health crisis.
Contention
One notable aspect of the resolution is its focus on the rising rates of firearm suicides among children and specific demographic groups, including Native American/Alaska Native and Black youth, as well as elderly white males. This data underscores the necessity for targeted approaches in tackling firearm suicides in these communities. While the resolution garners broad support for its intent, debates may arise regarding the balance between promoting gun safety and the rights surrounding gun ownership, amidst a polarized national conversation about firearms.
Expressing support for the designation of September 10, 2024, as "National Firearm Suicide Prevention Day" to educate about the growing firearm suicide crisis in the United States and promote the importance of storing firearms safely and securely as an essential component of suicide prevention.
Recognizing suicide as a serious public health problem and expressing support for the designation of September as "National Suicide Prevention Month" as well as September 10, 2024, as "World Suicide Prevention Day".
Supporting the designation of September 17, 2023, as "National Physician Suicide Awareness Day" to raise awareness of, and promote a national discussion about, physician suicide and to reduce the stigma of mental health issues.
A resolution supporting the designation of September 17, 2023, as "National Physician Suicide Awareness Day" to raise awareness of, and promote a national discussion about, physician suicide and to reduce the stigma of mental health issues.