Denette Blackburn

HB 1635, as currently written, ensures that school personnel are trained to recognize warning signs and respond effectively, creating safer environments for students. Any changes to this bill would weaken these protections and put young people at greater risk. Students spend much of their time in school, placing educators and staff in a unique position to notice warning signs and take action. Clear, consistent training provides the guidance and confidence needed to act quickly and appropriately. Weakening the bill jeopardizes the safety of our youth. I strongly urge the committee to reject all proposed changes to HB 1635 and uphold the bill as written. Our children deserve strong, consistent, and proven suicide prevention measures in every school.