Bullock Signs Bill Improving Suicide Prevention Efforts

Responding to a series of youth suicides in Montana, Governor Steve Bullock today hosted a ceremonial bill signing of a piece of legislation to combat this trend.

“Montana must do more to combat youth suicides in the state,” Bullock said of the measure. “This law will ensure that teachers and faculty members will know the signs demonstrated by students contemplating suicide, and ensure they know how best to address them.”

The law instructs the Montana Office of Public Instruction to develop a suicide awareness and prevention training curriculum for faculty and staff at schools, as well as recommending training for staff throughout the state.

Since taking office, Bullock has worked to reduce suicides in Montana, as well as continuing to work to identify the causes of Montana’s high suicide rate.

Studies have shown that suicide is the third leading cause of death among Americans aged 15-24.