Oct. 17, 2018
HARRISBURG – Legislation that would establish support systems to help college students in times of crisis is on the verge of becoming law in Pennsylvania, according to state Rep. Kristin Phillips-Hill (R-York Township). This follows unanimous passage in both the state House and Senate.
“Suicide is a growing public health crisis and York County’s suicide rate alone is alarming,” said Phillips-Hill. “Our suicide rate has increased 35 percent since 1999, and there have been 73 suicides in the county so far this year.
“I know the transition from high school to post-secondary education can create significant challenges and stresses for young people, and I was glad to help the bill’s author, Rep. Mark Schlossberg (D-Allentown), advance his legislation through the House.”
House Bill 1822 would allow institutions of higher education, from colleges and universities (both private and public) to trade schools such as Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology, to
establish student mental health and suicide prevention plans. At a minimum, plan requirements would include contact information for suicide prevention hotlines, crisis intervention services and access to mental health services.
“The good and bad news is this is landmark legislation,” Phillips-Hill added. “Current law does not address this issue, but it’s logical to think schools would want to institute these policies, given our current climate.
“House Bill 1822 does not require schools to establish student mental health and suicide prevention plans; however, it only seems right that they would enact these suggestions for the health of their institution.”
Representative Kristin Phillips-Hill
93rd Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives