Committee backs requirement for youth suicide-prevention training for school staff

Senator Mike Yakawich told the committee that Senate Bill 369 aims to expand access to youth suicide-prevention training for teachers and school employees, requiring at least one hour of training over a three-year period while preserving flexible delivery methods (in-person, online, or district-approved options). "We're creating momentum of requiring suicide prevention in the schools," Yakawich said, adding the requirement was intended to be a modest, low-burden step to increase coverage.

The Office of Public Instruction (OPI) testified it can provide no-cost training and resources and will work to ensure programs meet professional development standards. Carl Roston of DPHHS said the department favors evidence-based 'gatekeeper' trainings and will support the implementation with best-practice guidance. Tribal and grassroots mental-health advocates described high youth suicide risk in some communities and urged passage. "Please help ensure that our youth has early access to life saving preventative care," Alyssa Snow said in testimony representing multiple tribal communities.

Committee members discussed reporting and tracking of trainings. Witnesses described a decentralized record-keeping approach (attendance tracked locally) and noted OPI and school boards can assist with compliance tracking. The committee adopted an amendment clarifying some administration details and voted to advance the bill.

SB 369 now moves forward for the next steps in the legislative process; witnesses and sponsors said they will continue coordinating with OPI, the Board of Public Education and DPHHS on reporting and implementation details.