HB 1623 Summary

• Requires boards of education in each school district to adopt policies regarding suicide awareness/prevention training and student drug abuse reporting.

• Mandates schoolwide suicide prevention and awareness training for all students in grades 9-12 and staff, beginning with the 2013-2014 school year, using programs developed by the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services or approved alternatives.

• Makes course outlines for required training publicly available through school district websites.

• Provides immunity from employment discipline and civil liability for school personnel who report suspected threats, provide emergency care, or communicate information about drug abuse or safety threats made in good faith.

• Limits causes of action by prohibiting lawsuits unless loss or damage was caused by willful or wanton misconduct, and clarifies that training requirements do not create specific duties of care.