House bill would update youth suicide policy

Posted on March 11, 2021
Keygan Miller is with the Trevor Project, a national suicide prevention organization for the LGBTQ committee. (Dave Dahl/WJBC)

 

By Dave Dahl

SPRINGFIELD – A bill which has passed an Illinois House committee would strengthen existing law to explicitly recognize at-risk populations in suicide prevention policies for school kids.

“When a young person’s in crisis,” said Keygan Miller of the Trevor Project, “it’s essential for the adults around them to be equipped to recognize the issue and respond appropriately; and for the young person to be able to access the resources the care they need to make them feel safe and supported.”

The Trevor Project is a national suicide prevention organization for the LGBTQ committee.

Two members of the committee. State Reps. David Friess (R-Red Bud) and Steve Reick (R-Woodstock), were concerned about liability, but State Rep. Kathleen Willis (D-Addison) said that should make schools more vigilant and accountable.

HB 577 has passed the House Elementary and Secondary Education: School Curriculum and Policies Committee.

Dave Dahl can be reached at [email protected]

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