Senate Bill 281 Summary

• Establishes the Delaware Suicide Prevention Coalition as a formal statutory body under Title 16, Chapter 62 of the Delaware Code.

• Coalition shall review suicide statistics and patterns, consult with the Division of Public Health on prevalence, and implement methods to reduce suicide and suicide attempts in accordance with the State of Delaware Suicide Prevention Plan.

• Coalition membership consists of 10 members including representatives from the Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health, Division of Prevention and Behavioral Health Services, Division of Public Health, Department of Correction, Department of Education, Delaware Commission of Veterans Affairs, Delaware National Guard, Mental Health Association of Delaware, a private psychiatric facility, and one representative appointed by the Governor.

• Coalition shall elect a chairperson from its members, meet quarterly with additional meetings as needed, and be staffed by the Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health.

• Coalition shall submit annual reports to the Legislature and Governor with findings and recommendations regarding suicide prevention.