S.B. 2986 Summary

• Requires all teachers, principals, and school counselors in Hawaii to complete at least two hours of suicide prevention and education training during each school year.

• Training may be satisfied through completion of suicide prevention materials approved by the Department of Education.

• Appropriates funds from general revenues for fiscal year 2018-2019 to implement the in-service suicide prevention education program for school personnel.

• Addresses Hawaii's high suicide rates, including one death every two days on average and suicide being the leading cause of death for youth aged 15-24.

• Takes effect upon approval, with the appropriation effective July 1, 2018.