Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Education Committee |
SSB 6431
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
Brief Description: Concerning assistance for schools in implementing youth suicide prevention activities.
Sponsors: Senate Committee on Early Learning & K-12 Education (originally sponsored by Senators Hargrove, Kohl-Welles, Liias, Kline, Rolfes, Parlette, Frockt, Pedersen and Conway).
Brief Summary of Substitute Bill |
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Hearing Date: 2/20/14
Staff: Megan Wargacki (786-7194).
Background:
According to the Department of Health (DOH), suicide is the second leading cause of death for Washington state youth ages 10-24 and the third leading cause of death nationally. In this state and nationally, white individuals commit suicide most often, followed by Native American individuals.
The Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) oversees K-12 public education in Washington state and works with the state's 295 school districts. In 2011 the Legislature required the OSPI to work with state agencies and community partners to develop pilot projects to assist school in implementing youth suicide prevention activities.
In the 2013 legislative session, the Legislature passed ESHB 1336. This law increased the capacity of school districts to recognize and respond to youth with emotional or behavioral distress, including indicators of possible youth suicide, by adding trainings, requiring improved planning, and encouraging partnerships with mental health and social services agencies in the community.
Summary of Bill:
The OSPI is directed to work with state agencies and community partners to assist schools in implementing youth suicide prevention activities which may include:
training for school employees, parents, community members, and students in recognizing and responding to the signs of suicide;
partnering with local coalitions of community members interested in preventing youth suicide; and
responding to communities determined to be in crisis to prevent further instances of suicide after a suicide or attempted suicide.
The OSPI is directed to work with state agencies and community partners to prioritize funding appropriated for youth suicide prevention activities for:
schools identified by the DOH as situated in high-risk areas or in a communities with high-risk populations;
tribal communities; and
communities with a high percentage of students who speak English as a second language.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.