WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

A 5197

Establishes an LGBTQ+ youth and young adult suicide prevention task force; and providing for the repeal of such provisions upon the expiration thereof

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Chris Burdick and 12 co-sponsors

Bill A 5197 creates a task force to prevent suicide among LGBTQ+ youth and young adults, enhancing mental health support and resources for this vulnerable group.

REFERRED TO MENTAL HEALTH
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 5197

Summary of Bill A 5197

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: A 5197
  • Title: Establishes an LGBTQ+ youth and young adult suicide prevention task force; and providing for the repeal of such provisions upon the expiration thereof
  • Status: Referred to Mental Health
  • Introduced: February 12, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of Bill A 5197 is to create a dedicated task force aimed at addressing and preventing suicide among LGBTQ+ youth and young adults. This initiative recognizes the heightened risk of suicide within this demographic and seeks to implement targeted strategies to improve mental health outcomes and provide necessary support.

Key Provisions

  • Establishment of a Task Force: The bill proposes the formation of a task force specifically focused on LGBTQ+ youth and young adult suicide prevention.
  • Composition of the Task Force: While the specific membership details are not outlined in the provided information, such task forces typically include mental health professionals, community leaders, and representatives from LGBTQ+ advocacy organizations.
  • Mandate and Responsibilities: The task force will likely be tasked with:
    • Assessing the current state of mental health services available to LGBTQ+ youth and young adults.
    • Developing and recommending evidence-based strategies for suicide prevention.
    • Collaborating with schools, community organizations, and healthcare providers to enhance support systems.
  • Expiration Clause: The provisions of the task force will be subject to repeal upon expiration, indicating a defined operational timeline that may require periodic review and renewal.

Impact

  • Target Population: The bill directly impacts LGBTQ+ youth and young adults, a group that has been statistically shown to experience higher rates of mental health issues and suicide.
  • Community and Stakeholders: The establishment of the task force will involve various stakeholders, including mental health professionals, educators, and LGBTQ+ advocacy groups, who will play a crucial role in shaping the task force's initiatives.
  • Potential Outcomes: By focusing on suicide prevention, the bill aims to reduce the incidence of suicide within the LGBTQ+ community, improve access to mental health resources, and foster a supportive environment for affected individuals.

Procedural Aspects

  • Current Status: As of February 12, 2025, the bill has been referred to the Mental Health committee for further consideration.
  • Related Legislation: This bill is related to several prior-session bills (A 8306, A 1548, A 6599) and has a companion bill in the Senate (S 7914), indicating ongoing legislative interest in this area.

In summary, Bill A 5197 seeks to establish a focused approach to prevent suicide among LGBTQ+ youth and young adults through the creation of a specialized task force, aiming to enhance mental health support and resources for this vulnerable population.

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

Sign in to ask a question.