Suicide Prevention Legislation Passes Key Policy Hurdle

Sacramento, California- Today, SB 972 the suicide prevention legislation authored by Senator Anthony J. Portantino, D–La Cañada Flintridge, passed the Assembly Education Policy Committee.

“I am so glad that this important piece of legislation continues to garner support. As a father and a legislator, the safety of our children continues to be a priority. In addition to the practical benefit to students I hope to foster an open dialogue about suicide and to help prevent these horrific tragedies. If one life can be saved through this bill all of our efforts will have been worth it,” commented Senator Portantino.

SB 972 would require public, charter, and private schools to print the suicide prevention hotline number and/or text crisis lines on student identification cards for grades seven through all college institutions.

Senator Portantino has a distinguished record supporting the well-being of kids at all levels. He is a strong advocate for suicide prevention and mental health policy. This bill is also personal for Senator Portantino as his family has been affected by suicide.  Adolescent suicide and self-inflicted injury are a serious social and public health concern. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide is the second leading cause of death among young people ages 15-24.

SB 972 is supported by the American Academy of Pediatrics California, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, California Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, California Catholic Conference, California Junior Leagues’ State Public Affairs Committee, Pal Alto Mid-Peninsula Junior League, California School Boards Association, California School Nurses Organization, California State PTA, County Behavioral Health Directors Association, Disability Rights California (DRC), Hathaway–Sycamores, Hacienda La Puente Unified School District, High School Parent Engagement Group, Mental Health America of California (MHAC), Pacific Clinics, and Special Education Local Plan Area (SELPA) Administrators of California

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