Committee advances bill to put suicide-prevention hotline on student IDs

The Assembly Higher Education Committee voted to amend and release Assembly Bill 4,897, which would require certain student identification cards to include a telephone number for suicide-prevention and mental-health crisis resources, determined by the Commissioner of Human Services.

Proponents told the committee the measure is intended to increase visibility of help for young people. Liz Graham, who identified herself as the CEO of "180 Turning Lives Ground" and a representative of the 2nd Floor youth helpline, described the hotline and related services and urged passage. She said the helpline has reached more than 1,000,000 young people since 2008 and that recent digital tools expand access. "You are not alone. Help is always here," Graham said, adding that placing crisis numbers on IDs ensures students have quick access to resources.

The committee packet includes amendments that specify the number printed on IDs is to be determined by the Commissioner of Human Services and clarifies that the provision applies to certain student identification cards. Several organizations registered in favor during the meeting, including representatives for Care Plus NJ and the New Jersey Association of State Colleges and Universities.

Committee members spoke in support, describing the change as a practical step to make help more accessible on campus and at school. After a motion to amend and release the bill, the committee conducted a roll call and recorded unanimous support from members present; the motion passed and the bill was released with committee amendments.

The committee did not vote on final passage; releasing a bill from committee advances it to the next stage of legislative consideration.