Andrew Share

Suicide is the second leading cause of death in New Hampshire for youth ages 10 to 24. Too many young lives are being lost, and suicide is preventable. Early identification, education, and intervention are proven tools to save lives. NH RSA 193-J:2, II as currently enacted, ensures that school personnel are trained to recognize warning signs and respond effectively, creating safer environments for students. HB 1635, however, would unnecessarily reduce the frequency and scope of suicide prevention training for school personnel, undermining the state’s previous efforts to ensure that school personnel are adequately trained to recognize warning signs and respond effectively. The proposed rollback of HB 1635 would weaken 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. Passing HB 1635 would jeopardize the safety of our youth. I strongly urge the committee to vote NO on HB 1635 and preserve New Hampshire’s current annual suicide prevention training requirements for educators. Our children deserve strong, consistent, and proven suicide prevention measures in every school. Thank you for your time and for your commitment to protecting New Hampshire’s youth. Andrew Share