H.R. 10085 (IH): Saving Lives on Campuses Act of 2024
Introduction
The Saving Lives on Campuses Act of 2024 (H.R. 10085) is a bill introduced in the United States House of Representatives on November 5, 2024. The bill aims to enhance suicide prevention and mental health support for students on college and university campuses.
Key Provisions
The bill includes several key provisions designed to address the issue of student suicide on campuses:
- Increased Mental Health Counseling: Requires institutions of higher education to provide at least one mental health counselor for every 3,000 students enrolled.
- Mandatory Suicide Prevention Screening: Mandates that all entering students receive a suicide risk screening within 30 days of enrollment.
- Crisis Hotlines and Other Support: Requires institutions to establish a 24/7 crisis hotline, as well as provide other mental health support services, such as peer support groups and online counseling.
- Training for Faculty and Staff: Provides grants for institutions to train faculty and staff on how to identify and respond to students at risk of suicide.
- Data Collection and Reporting: Directs the Department of Education to collect and report data on suicide rates and mental health services provided by institutions of higher education.
Background
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide is the second leading cause of death among college students in the United States. In 2020, there were an estimated 600 suicides among college students.
Student mental health has been a growing concern in recent years, with many factors contributing to increased stress and anxiety levels, including academic pressure, financial worries, and social isolation. The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated these challenges, leading to increased rates of depression and anxiety among students.
Support and Opposition
The Saving Lives on Campuses Act has received bipartisan support from members of Congress, as well as from mental health and student advocacy groups. They argue that the bill would provide vital resources and support to students struggling with mental health issues and help prevent suicide tragedies.
However, some have expressed concerns about the potential costs of implementing the bill’s provisions, as well as the logistical challenges of providing adequate mental health services to all students.
Legislative Process
H.R. 10085 has been referred to the House Committee on Education and Labor for consideration. The committee will hold hearings and markup the bill before voting on whether to recommend it for approval by the full House. If passed by the House, the bill would then move to the Senate for consideration.
Conclusion
The Saving Lives on Campuses Act of 2024 is a significant legislative initiative aimed at addressing the urgent issue of student suicide. The bill proposes a comprehensive approach to providing mental health support and suicide prevention services on college campuses nationwide. While the bill has received widespread support, it remains to be seen if it will be successfully passed into law and implemented in a timely manner.
H.R. 10085 (IH) – Saving Lives on Campuses Act of 2024
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