HENDERSON, Ky (WEHT) – A bill introduced by Indiana Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind) and Minnesota Senator Tina Smith (D-Minn) is aiming to combat youth suicides across the country.
Called the Raising Awareness for Youth Suicide Prevention Act, this would require middle and high schools to include the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline and relevant suicide prevention information on student IDs.
Another provision is schools that do not issue an identification card would not be required to start but would need to publish the information on school websites and other student portals.
According to Banks’ office, the bill will make suicide prevention readily available for students, helping to save lives and protect mental health.
“It is unacceptable that suicide is the leading cause of death for Americans under 21. This legislation will expand access to vital resources and help save lives,” Banks said.
“We can’t afford to leave holes in the safety net we’ve built to catch people when they’re going through hard times or struggling with their mental health,” Smith said. “That’s why we created the 988 hotline in the first place. Now, we need to make sure everyone, especially young people, know help is available to them when they need it. This is a common-sense idea to help those facing mental health challenges. It tells them that they are not alone and help is out there.”