Nunn Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Equip Schools with Suicide Prevention Tools

WASHINGTON, D.C. - During National Suicide Awareness Month, Representatives Zach Nunn (IA-03) and Chris Pappas (NH-01) introduced the Prevent Youth Suicide Act , bipartisan legislation to equip educators with tools to identify students at risk of suicide and provide life-saving interventions.

"One life lost to suicide is one too many, and far too many families in Iowa know this pain firsthand," said Rep. Nunn . "The Prevent Youth Suicide Act gives high school teachers and staff the tools to act before a crisis, protect our kids, and help them thrive."

Suicide is now the second leading cause of death for young people ages 10-24. In Iowa, the suicide rate for this age group is 18.5 per 100,000 - roughly 30% higher than the national average. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 40% of high school students nationwide reported persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness in 2023, and 1 in 10 attempted suicide.

Despite the urgent need, most school districts lack consistent training and resources to help teachers spot the warning signs when a student is struggling. Without clear guidance, those signs can be missed and students are left without support.

"Every child should know they have someone in their corner when they need it. Our educators do incredible work to teach and support students, and this legislation would ensure they have the training, resources, and processes to help children and connect them with mental health professionals," said Rep. Pappas . "As we work to tackle the mental health crisis, we must listen to the needs of our children and teachers and take action to strengthen resources and support. No one should ever feel alone in this fight."

The Prevent Youth Suicide Act would require the U.S. Department of Education to implement a new national standard for suicide prevention across middle and high schools. Specifically, the bill would: