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HD 3773

An Act Jason Flatt Law to prevent to prevent teen suicide

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Paul Frost and 2 co-sponsors

HD 3773 - An Act Jason Flatt Law to prevent teen suicide OverviewBill Number: HD 3773 Title: An Act Jason Flatt Law to prevent teen suicide Status: Senate concurred Introduced:

Senate concurred
0
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Bill Summary · HD 3773

HD 3773 - An Act Jason Flatt Law to prevent teen suicide

Overview

Bill Number: HD 3773
Title: An Act Jason Flatt Law to prevent teen suicide
Status: Senate concurred
Introduced: February 27, 2025

Purpose and Intent

This bill, known as the Jason Flatt Law, aims to address the critical issue of teen suicide by requiring annual suicide prevention training for all public school personnel. The legislation is named after Jason Flatt, a teenager who died by suicide in 1997, and is based on similar laws passed in several other states. The primary goal is to equip teachers, administrators, and staff with the knowledge and skills to identify warning signs, intervene appropriately, and connect students with necessary mental health resources.

Key Provisions

  • Mandates annual suicide prevention training for all public school employees, including teachers, administrators, counselors, and support staff
  • Requires training curriculum to cover topics such as risk factors, warning signs, appropriate intervention techniques, and referral procedures
  • Directs the state Department of Education to develop and implement the training program, with input from mental health experts and suicide prevention organizations
  • Provides funding for the training program through a dedicated line item in the state education budget
  • Establishes reporting requirements for schools to track training completion and student suicide attempts or deaths

Affected Parties and Impacts

The primary beneficiaries of this legislation are public school students, particularly those struggling with mental health issues or suicidal ideation. By ensuring that all school personnel receive comprehensive suicide prevention training, the bill aims to create a more supportive and responsive environment for vulnerable students. Additionally, the training requirements may have a positive impact on the mental health awareness and preparedness of school staff.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

The bill has passed both the state House and Senate and is currently awaiting the governor's signature to be enacted into law. If signed, the new suicide prevention training requirements would take effect at the start of the next school year, with the first round of training to be completed by the end of that academic year. The Department of Education will be responsible for developing and implementing the training program in the intervening months.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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