House passes optional parent seminars bill to address youth suicide and other risks

House Bill 298, which directs the State Office of Education to provide materials and support for optional parent seminars on youth protection topics, passed the Utah House 61–11.

Representative Eliason, sponsor of HB298, described the program as a community‑education resource districts may use to address substance abuse, bullying, mental‑health issues and suicide prevention. Eliason said the State Board of Education endorsed the bill and that an amendment allows districts to opt out if they choose. The sponsor cited Utah’s elevated youth suicide statistics and said parents need accessible resources to recognize and respond to risk.

Members from both parties supported the bill by describing district programs that have had strong turnout and positive results. Representative Red, who works as a deputy medical examiner, and Representative Paulson, a teacher, offered personal testimony underscoring the need for better parental information and resources. Representative Cunningham and others urged attention to outreach strategies so seminars reach families that may lack internet access or other channels.

The sponsor said community groups such as NAMI Utah and existing programs can supply materials and training at little or no incremental cost to the state, and that districts already doing similar programs will satisfy the requirement. The House adopted the bill and will send it to the Senate.